“Grumble #1” By Rafer Roberts & Mike Norton Review

When the forces of good and evil are hunting you down, the only logical thing to do is disguise yourself as a dog and go on the run! Eddie is a low-rent hustler who got magically turned into a pug during a con gone wrong. Tala is Eddie’s long-lost, part-demon daughter. When Tala finds herself the target of powerful inter-dimensional forces, she goes to Eddie for help-setting off a chain reaction of chaos and destruction that could threaten the very fabric of existence. Can Eddie and Tala put aside their differences long enough to survive the magical mayhem and madness that they started, or will they kill each other first? (It’s probably the second one!) For readers who like it gruff and anthropomorphic, get ready for your new favorite comic!

This comic book is an engaging debut that blends humor, fantasy, and crime in a highly entertaining package. At the same time this comic book introduces us as readers to a world filled with magic, mischief, and mayhem, setting the stage for a thrilling series.

The story in this comic book centers on Eddie, a con artist with a knack for trouble, and Tala, a young woman with a mysterious past. Together, they navigate a world where magic is real and danger lurks around every corner. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that is both fast-paced and character-driven, weaving together elements of noir and fantasy with a comedic twist. The plot is cleverly constructed that have kept me personally intrigued and eager to see what unfolds next.

The character development is a standout feature in this comic book. Because Eddie is portrayed as a deeply flawed yet charismatic protagonist, whose quick wit and questionable morals make him both compelling and unpredictable. Tala, on the other hand, is a strong and enigmatic figure, whose backstory and motivations are gradually revealed, adding depth and intrigue. The dynamic between the two leads is electric, offering plenty of humor and tension as they navigate their chaotic world.

The artwork in this comic book is a perfect match for the story’s tone, bringing the characters and their fantastical surroundings to life with vivid detail and creativity. The illustrations capture the energy and humor of the narrative, with expressive character designs and dynamic action sequences. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to blend the mundane with the magical creates a visually captivating experience that enhances the storytelling.

While this comic book excels in many areas, there are moments where the pacing feels slightly uneven. The rapid-fire dialogue and quick transitions can occasionally make it challenging to fully absorb the plot’s intricacies. However, this is a minor issue in an otherwise well-crafted narrative, and the engaging characters and intriguing premise more than compensate for any pacing concerns.

The dialogues in this comic book are sharp and witty, capturing the essence of the characters and their interactions. The writing in this comic book is both entertaining and insightful, using conversations to reveal character motivations and advance the plot. The dialogue not only adds humor but also enriches the character dynamics, making them more relatable and engaging.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Lori Lovecraft Vol. 1: Introduction” By Pete Ventrella & Mike Vosburg Review

Giant-sized Lori Lovecraft Collection. This trade paperback collects the short Into The Past, Back To The Garden,and VooDoo Mansion. At nineteen with her innocent beauty and body to die for, Lori Lovecraft had no shortage of offers on her quest for the Hollywood dream. But at thrity, without talent or clout she’s an aging has-been and the dream is turning into a nightmare. Her last chance is DAME IN DANGER, a no budget flick by cult director Derik VonVon, who’s looking to make a comeback himself. Unfortunately for Lori and co-star Allen Roberts, VonVon and his punk rock protege Natasha Reich have more devious plans. To escape this doom Lori has to seek the strength and knowledge from the one source she’s never had herself.

Let me start this review by saying that this one is just a preview for the entire comic book. And I read it because I wanted to see if the full comic book was worth the money and time I would spend on it. And I’m gonna give you the answer for that at the end of this review.

This preview attempts to blend Hollywood glamour with supernatural intrigue, but unfortunately, it falls short in execution. Despite its intriguing premise, the comic struggles with narrative cohesion, character development, and overall engagement.

The story in this preview centers on Lori Lovecraft, a former starlet navigating a world filled with occult mysteries. While the idea of combining the glitz of Hollywood with supernatural elements is promising, the narrative lacks clarity and direction. The plot meanders without a clear focus, making it difficult for me personally to become invested in Lori’s journey or the challenges she faces.

The character development is notably weak in this preview, Lori, intended to be a charismatic and complex protagonist, comes across as one-dimensional. Her motivations are unclear, and her personality lacks depth, making it challenging for me personally to connect with her. The supporting characters fare no better, often serving as mere background figures without significant roles or development.

The artwork in this preview, while stylistically distinct, struggles to elevate the story. The illustrations capture the noir-inspired aesthetic the comic aims for, but they often lack consistency and detail. This inconsistency can make it difficult for me personally to follow the action or engage with the characters. Additionally, the art style might not appeal to everyone, as it fails to effectively convey the intended atmosphere or enhance the storytelling.

One of the primary issues I had with this preview is its pacing. The story moves erratically, with scenes that feel disjointed and transitions that lack fluidity. This uneven pacing disrupts the narrative flow, making it challenging for me personally to follow the plot or maintain interest. A more structured approach could have allowed for better exploration of the themes and characters.

The dialogues in this preview are often stilted and lacks nuance. Conversations feel forced and expository, serving more as a tool for delivering information than for developing characters or advancing the plot. More engaging and natural dialogue could have added layers to the narrative, making the characters more relatable and the story more compelling.

So will I buy and read the full version of this comic book ? I don’t think I will. The main reason behind this is how poorly this preview was very uninteresting for me personally.

I Give This Book 1 / 5

“Sidewise #1” By Dwight L. MacPherson & Igor Noronha Review

Teen genius Adam Graham borrows his parents’ time device to visit 1902 London only to find himself in an alternate universe.

This comic book introduces an ambitious concept that unfortunately falls short in execution. At the same time this comic book attempts to blend elements of science fiction and adventure, but struggles with pacing and character development.

The premise of this comic book involves a young protagonist who stumbles into a parallel world filled with alternate realities and historical twists. While this concept holds great potential for an engaging story, the narrative feels rushed and lacks clarity. The issue attempts to cover too much ground too quickly which has left me with a fragmented understanding of the plot and its intricacies.

The character development is one of the weakest aspects of this comic book. The protagonist, while initially intriguing, is not given enough depth or backstory to make them relatable or engaging. Without a clear understanding of their motivations or personality, it becomes difficult for me personally to connect with their journey. Similarly, the supporting characters are underdeveloped, serving more as plot devices than fully realized individuals.

The artwork in this comic book, while visually interesting, struggles to compensate for the narrative’s deficiencies. The illustrations capture the chaotic and surreal nature of the alternate realities, but they often lack the detail and cohesion needed to effectively convey the story. The art style, though unique, may not appeal to all readers, as it can feel inconsistent and difficult to follow.

One of the primary issues I had with this comic book is its pacing. The story moves rapidly through scenes without providing sufficient context or explanation. This hurried approach prevents the narrative from building meaningful tension or emotional impact, resulting in a disjointed and unsatisfying reading experience. A more measured pace could allow for better exploration of the characters and the intriguing worlds they inhabit.

The dialogues in this comic book are often expository, lacking the depth and nuance needed to develop character relationships or advance the plot effectively. Conversations feel forced, serving more as a means to deliver information than to engage readers or reveal character insights. More engaging dialogue could add layers to the narrative, enhancing the overall storytelling.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Possessions Vol. 1: Unclean Getaway Preview” By Ray Fawkes Review

10-Page Preview! Meet Gurgazon the Unclean, the cuddliest little pit demon ever trapped in the Llewellyn-Vane House for Captured Spirits and Ghostly Curiosities! This pit demon may look just like a cute little 5-year old girl, but it isn’t interested in playing checkers with other ghosts. The Gurgazon is determined to escape! Will the house contain it? Or will the world of peace and friendly bunnies come to an end as the Gurgazon exacts its revenge?

Let me start this review by saying that this one is just a preview for the entire comic book. And I read it because I wanted to see if the full comic book was worth the money and time I would spend on it. And I’m gonna give you the answer for that at the end of this review.

This preview embarks on a supernatural journey that, despite its intriguing premise, stumbles in execution. While the concept of this preview is about a young girl possessed by multiple spirits offers potential for engaging storytelling, this preview struggles to deliver a cohesive and compelling narrative.

The story in this preview introduces us to Gurgazon, a demon trapped in the body of a little girl, residing at the Llewellyn-Vane House for Captured Spirits and Ghostly Curiosities. The setting is ripe for a mix of humor and horror, but the narrative feels disjointed and lacking in depth. The plot progresses rapidly without establishing a strong foundation, which has left me with questions rather than intrigue.

The character development is minimal, with Gurgazon depicted primarily through her mischievous antics. While her rebellious nature provides some entertainment, it lacks the complexity needed to make her a fully engaging protagonist. The supporting cast, including the staff and other supernatural entities, are similarly underdeveloped, serving more as background elements than integral parts of the story.

The artwork in this preview, while stylistically distinct, does little to enhance the narrative. The illustrations capture the quirky and eerie nature of the setting, but they often appear cluttered and lack clarity. This can make it difficult for me personally to follow the action or connect with the characters. Additionally, the art style, while unique, may not appeal to everyone, potentially alienating some readers.

One significant issue I had with this preview is its pacing. The story moves quickly through key events without providing sufficient context or character exploration. This rapid progression prevents the narrative from building meaningful tension or emotional impact, resulting in a reading experience that feels superficial and unsatisfying.

The dialogues in this preview are straightforward but lacks the wit and charm needed to elevate the characters and their interactions. Conversations often feel functional rather than engaging, missing opportunities to develop character relationships or enhance the humor. More nuanced dialogue could add layers to the narrative, enriching the overall storytelling.

So will I buy and read the full version of this comic book ? I don’t think I will. The main reason behind this is how poorly this preview was very uninteresting for me personally.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Teen Titans Go! To Camp #4” By Sholly Fisch & Darío Brizuela Review

Beast Boy writes his stepmother, who interrupts a battle to read it aloud.

This comic book attempts to deliver the trademark humor and playful antics fans expect from the Teen Titans Go! series, but unfortunately, this comic book falls short in execution.

The story in this comic book takes the young Titans on another camp adventure, filled with potential for fun and mischief. However, the narrative feels disjointed and lacks the engaging plot that typically drives the series. The jokes, while present, often miss the mark, relying heavily on slapstick and predictable gags that fail to capture the cleverness usually associated with the franchise.

The character development is minimal in this comic book, with the Titans reduced to their most basic traits. Robin’s obsessive leadership, Beast Boy’s goofiness, and Raven’s deadpan humor are all present, but they lack the depth and nuance that make them interesting. The interactions between characters feel repetitive and uninspired, missing opportunities to explore their dynamics in new and creative ways.

The artwork in this comic book remains true to the animated style of Teen Titans Go!, with exaggerated expressions that appeal to younger audiences. However, even the vibrant visuals cannot fully compensate for the lackluster narrative. While the art captures the energy of the series, it struggles to enhance a story that feels stagnant and unoriginal.

One significant issue I had with this comic book is its pacing. Because the story jumps from scene to scene without a clear sense of direction or purpose, resulting in a fragmented narrative. This lack of cohesion makes it difficult for me personally to stay engaged or invested in the Titans’ camp antics. A more structured approach could have allowed for better comedic timing and plot development.

The dialogues in this comic book are straightforward but lacks the wit and humor that fans expect. Conversations often feel forced and lack the clever banter that typically characterizes the Titans’ interactions. More engaging dialogue could have added depth to the characters and enhanced the comedic elements of the story.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“DC Nation (2018) #6” By Liam Sharp & Steve Oliff Review

The monthly free magazine that brings you insie info on the characters and creators of the DC Universe!

This comic book offers us a mixed collection of stories. At the same time this comic book provides a variety of narratives, showcasing different aspects of the DC Universe, but the overall impact is somewhat uneven.

Th The anthology format allows for diverse storytelling, with each piece bringing its own flavor and focus. This is comic book features a range of characters and scenarios, from iconic heroes to lesser-known figures. While this variety is one of the issue’s strengths, it also contributes to a sense of inconsistency in tone and quality

Liam Sharp’s contribution stands out for its detailed artwork and imaginative approach. His illustrations are dynamic and intricate, capturing the essence of the characters and their environments. Sharp’s ability to convey motion and emotion through his art adds depth to the narratives, making them visually engaging.

However, some stories in this comic book feel rushed or underdeveloped, which has left me wanting more depth and cohesion. The short format can be a double-edged sword, providing quick snapshots of different worlds but also limiting the potential for thorough exploration and character development. This can lead to a lack of emotional resonance, as picky readers as myself may struggle to connect with the characters or become fully invested in the plots.

The writing in this comic book varies in effectiveness. While some narratives are sharp and engaging, others rely on familiar tropes or lack the originality needed to stand out. The dialogue, though generally well-crafted, occasionally feels expository, serving more as a tool for advancing the plot than for developing character dynamics or revealing deeper themes.

One of this comic book’s highlights is its ability to introduce new readers to the expansive DC Universe. By offering a selection of stories featuring different characters and settings, it acts as a gateway for those unfamiliar with the comics. However, for seasoned fans, the lack of depth in some stories might be a drawback, as they seek more substantial narratives and character exploration.

Despite its shortcomings this comic book succeeds in showcasing the creativity and diversity of the DC Universe. The artwork, particularly Sharp’s, is a visual treat, and the variety of stories ensures there is something for every reader. This comic book’s format allows for experimentation and creativity, even if not every story hits the mark.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Neotopia Vol. 1 #1” By Rod Espinosa Review

Compassionate ruler Nalyn, secretly an abused servant standing in for the arrogant, conceited true princess, is kidnapped. Despite Nalyn wrecking his recent invention, Philios reluctantly leads a daring rescue mission to save her from the Krosian Emperor’s dungeons. But as they return home, a nasty surprise awaits them all.

This comic book introduces us as readers to a vibrant fantasy world. At the same time this comic book sets the groundwork for an adventurous tale, blending elements of steampunk, fantasy, and political intrigue.

The story in this comic book takes place in a richly imagined world where technology and magic coexist. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that follows Nalyn, a seemingly ordinary girl thrust into an extraordinary journey. The plot hints at deeper themes of identity, power, and responsibility, providing a promising foundation for future exploration. However, the initial setup feels somewhat rushed, with a lot of world-building packed into a short space, which can be overwhelming for some readers.

The character development in this comic book is promising but limited. Nalyn is introduced as a relatable protagonist, her curiosity and courage driving the narrative forward. While her character shows potential for growth, the issue doesn’t delve deeply into her backstory or motivations. The supporting cast, though intriguing, is not fully fleshed out, which has left me personally wanting more insight into their roles and relationships.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature, bringing the world of Neotopia to life with vivid detail and creativity. The illustrations are colorful and dynamic, capturing the whimsical yet intricate nature of the setting. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to blend elements of fantasy and steampunk is evident in the design of the landscapes and machinery, which add depth to the visual storytelling.

While this comic book excels in world-building and visual storytelling, it faces some challenges in pacing. The narrative moves quickly through key plot points, which can make it difficult for me personally to fully grasp the intricacies of the world and its lore. A more measured approach to pacing could allow for deeper exploration of both the characters and the setting, providing a richer narrative experience.

The dialogues in this comic book are straightforward and functional, capturing the essence of the characters and their interactions. The writing in this comic book is engaging, though it occasionally lacks the depth and nuance needed to fully develop character dynamics. More intricate dialogue could add layers to the relationships, enhancing the emotional impact of the story.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Starcraft: Ghost Academy Vol. 1: Preview” By Keith DeCandido & Fernando Heinz Furukawa Review

10-Page Preview! Ghost Academy chronicles the early years of six StarCraft characters all destined for greatness-and tragedy. Five teenaged fourth-class Terrans (Nova, Tosh, Aal, Kath, and Lio) are rough-around-the-edges Ghost cadets in training – and they are forced to deal with everyday teen issues such as crushes, physical and emotional pain, addiction to drugs and their own budding telepathic abilities.

Let me start this review by saying that this one is just a preview for the entire comic book. And I read it because I wanted to see if the full comic book was worth the money and time I would spend on it. And I’m gonna give you the answer for that at the end of this review.

This preview steps into the expansive universe of Starcraft, aiming to explore the early training of elite psionic warriors known as Ghosts. However, despite a promising premise its shortcomings in execution and engagement.

The story in this preview introduces us as readers to a group of young recruits at the Ghost Academy, focusing on their rigorous training and the psychological toll it takes. While the premise offers a chance to delve into the rich lore of the Starcraft universe, the narrative fails to capitalize on this potential, delivering a plot that feels both predictable and underwhelming.

The character development is one of the weaker aspects of this preview. The recruits, who should be central to the story, come across as archetypal and lacking depth. Their motivations and personalities are not fully explored, making it difficult for me personally to form a connection or investment in their journeys. The potential for complex character dynamics is present but remains largely unexplored.

The artwork in this comic book is a bright spot, capturing the futuristic and militaristic aesthetic of the Starcraft universe. The illustrations effectively convey the intensity of the training scenes and the high-tech environment of the academy. However, even with strong visuals, the art alone cannot make up for the narrative’s deficiencies in character and plot development.

One of the primary issues I had with this preview is its pacing. The story moves slowly, focusing heavily on training sequences without providing sufficient context or stakes to engage us as readers. This emphasis on the mundane aspects of the academy life detracts from the potential excitement and intrigue that the story could offer. A more dynamic approach to pacing could improve engagement and allow for deeper exploration of the characters and their world.

The dialogues in this preview are serviceable but lacks the depth and nuance necessary to elevate the story. Conversations between characters often feel flat and expository, serving more as a means to deliver information rather than to develop relationships or reveal character insights. More engaging dialogue could add layers to the narrative, making the interactions more compelling and meaningful.

So will I buy and read the full version of this comic book ? I don’t think I will. The main reason behind this is how poorly this preview was very uninteresting for me personally.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Harbinger, Vol. 2: Renegades” By Joshua Dysart & Philippe Briones & Barry Kitson Review

Led by omega-powered psionic Toyo Harada, the Harbinger Foundation is a secret organization that has controlled and subverted the course of recent history. With a secret army of psychic soldiers at his command, no one has dared defy Toyo Harada’s plans for the human race – until now! Harada’s most powerful student, Peter Stanchek, has discovered the true nature of the Harbinger Foundation and he will stop at nothing to prevent Harada’s vision from coming to pass. With a classified list of Harada’s next recruits in hand, it falls to Peter to draft the next generation of empowered youth and form the frontline in humanity’s resistance to the Harbinger Foundation. Peter. Kris. Zephyr. Flamingo. Torque. Their fight for the future comes out of the shadows and into the Valiant Universe when Renegades begins.

This comic book is a compelling continuation of the Harbinger series. At the same time this comic book delves deeper into the complexities of power, identity, and rebellion, delivering a gripping narrative that expands on the foundation laid in the first volume.

The story in this comic book follows Peter Stanchek and his band of superpowered outcasts as they continue to navigate a world that fears and misunderstands them. The creators of this comic book skillfully weaves a narrative that combines action, drama, and social commentary, exploring themes of control and freedom. The plot is well-paced, maintaining tension and intrigue as the Renegades confront new challenges and adversaries.

The character development is a standout feature of this comic book. The creators of this comic book takes the time to flesh out each member of the Renegades, giving us as readers a deeper understanding of their motivations and struggles. Peter, in particular, is portrayed with complexity, grappling with the burden of his powers and the responsibility that comes with them. The supporting cast, including Faith and Kris, are equally well-developed, adding depth and diversity to the team dynamic.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative with a style that captures both the intensity and emotion of the story. The illustrations are detailed and dynamic, effectively conveying the action sequences and the more introspective moments. The character designs are distinctive and expressive, enhancing the depth of the storytelling.

This comic book excels in narrative and character development, it occasionally leans heavily on familiar tropes of the superhero genre. Some plot elements may feel predictable to picky readers as myself, though the execution and depth of character exploration help mitigate this. The series’ strength lies in its ability to infuse these elements with fresh perspectives and emotional weight.

The dialogues in this comic book are sharp and effective, capturing the distinct voices and personalities of the characters. The writing in this comic book is both engaging and insightful, using conversations to explore complex themes and advance the plot. The dialogue adds depth to the relationships, making them both compelling and relatable.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Penelope’s Adventure Club 3” By Penelope Rivera & Josh Rivera Review

Penelope, Josh, and friends are back with even more adventures! With Shirt and Pants reunited, what will happen this time around? Will this be the kids last adventure or is it just the beginning? Join the club! Penelope and Josh Rivera (now 10 and 12 years old) wrote and drew PAC 3 during the coronavirus pandemic. These two teamed up again to tell a very creative story (Book 2 was a collaboration by this brother/sister duo. Book 1 was written and created by Penelope @ 8 years old). They hope to one day have this series printed and sold at Barnes & Noble. Penelope’s dream is to be an author and hopes that this comic will make other kids laugh, happy, and entertained.In addition, Penelope and Josh would like to use these books as a vehicle to help others. In 2019 the kids donated all the sales of their eBooks to Give Kids The World in Orlando, Florida (a nonprofit resort in Central Florida that provides week-long, cost-free vacations to children with critical illnesses and their families).

This comic book aims to captivate young readers with another installment of whimsical adventures. At the same time this comic book struggles a lot with repetitive storytelling and lacks the engaging elements necessary to hold my attention in this comic book. 

The story in this comic book follows Penelope and her friends as they embark on another adventure, but the narrative feels stagnant, offering little in terms of new experiences or insights. The plot is predictable, lacking the creativity and excitement needed to make the adventure memorable. This lack of innovation results in a narrative that feels more like a rehash of previous comic books in this series rather than a fresh journey.

Penelope, the protagonist, continues to be underdeveloped. Her character lacks depth and growth, making it difficult for me personally to connect with her journey. The supporting characters remain one-dimensional, serving as mere background figures rather than contributing meaningfully to the story. This lack of character development prevents the narrative from resonating emotionally with its audience.

The dialogues throughout this comic book continues to fall short of its potential. The illustrations are basic and lack the dynamic energy required to bring Penelope’s adventures to life. Backgrounds are sparse, and the lack of detail in character designs contributes to a static visual experience. This results in visuals that fail to drawn me personally into the world, leaving the adventures feeling uninspired and dull.

One of the core issues I had with this comic book is its inability to innovate or build upon previous stories. The series seems stuck in a cycle of repetition, with each installment offering similar plots and character interactions. This lack of growth and creativity makes it difficult for the series to maintain my interested in this comic book and this whole series over time.

Despite these shortcomings, the concept behind this comic book remains promising. With a focus on adventure, friendship, and discovery, it has the potential to be an engaging series for children. However, future comic books in this series need to focus on developing more complex characters, crafting engaging and varied plots, and enhancing the visual storytelling.

I Give This Book 1 / 5