Category: Comic Book Review

Valiant’s greatest heroes of past and present turn out in force on Free Comic Book Day 2013! Test your mettle with an exclusive look inside HARBINGER WARS — the blistering conflict between BLOODSHOT and HARBINGER that will crack the Valiant Universe in half. Plus — who will stand to oppose X-O MANOWAR on PLANET DEATH? What adventure lies beyond the horizon for ARCHER & ARMSTRONG? Who is the true heir to the legacy of the SHADOWMAN? And what top-secret projects could possibly be coming next?

This comic book offers an engaging introduction to the Valiant Universe. At the same time this comic book showcases a collection of stories from various creators, providing a dynamic snapshot of Valiant’s diverse lineup and intriguing characters.

This comic book begins with an introduction to key characters like X-O Manowar, Bloodshot, and Harbinger. Each segment effectively captures the essence of its respective series, blending action, intrigue, and character depth. The narrative seamlessly transitions between stories, offering just enough to pique interest while it has left me personally eager for more.

The writing throughout this comic book is sharp, with each creative team bringing its unique flair to the stories. The dialogue is crisp and captures the distinct personalities of the characters, from X-O Manowar’s stoic determination to Bloodshot’s gritty resilience. The creators of this comic book successfully convey the stakes and complexities of the Valiant Universe, making it accessible to both newcomers and longtime fans.

The artwork across this comic book is consistently strong, with each story featuring a distinct visual style that complements its narrative tone. The illustrations are detailed and dynamic, effectively capturing the action-packed nature of the Valiant series. The artwork in this comic book excel in conveying emotion and intensity, enhancing the storytelling and making each panel engaging.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to introduce new readers to the expansive Valiant Universe while still offering something valuable to seasoned fans. The special provides a taste of the rich narratives and complex characters that define Valiant, highlighting the unique elements that set it apart from other comic publishers.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between action, character development, and world-building. Each story flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the unfolding drama. This comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the stories remain accessible and intriguing.

Despite its strengths, this comic book has left me personally wanting more in-depth exploration of certain characters or storylines. However, this teaser approach is intentional, designed to hook readers and encourage them to explore the full series.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

When an eight-year-old girl literally begins to transform into a tree, her single mom, troubled brother, and possibly insane grandfather embark on a bizarre and heart-wrenching odyssey across the back roads of America in a desperate search for a way to cure her horrifying transformation before it’s too late. But the farther they get from home, the more forces threaten to tear the family apart as fanatical cults, mercenaries, and tabloid Paparazzi close in, determined to destroy the girl—or use her for their own ends. A new genre-defying series written by New York Times bestselling author JEFF LEMIRE (GIDEON FALLS, ASCENDER) and illustrated by acclaimed artist PHIL HESTER (Shipwreck, Green Arrow), FAMILY TREE combines mystery, action, and horror into an epic story about the lengths a mother will go to in order to keep her children safe.

This comic book offers a unique blend of horror and family drama. At the same time this comic book sets up an intriguing premise, though it occasionally struggles with pacing and character depth.

The story in this comic book follows Loretta Hayes, a single mother dealing with the challenges of raising her children while working at a grocery store. Her life takes a bizarre turn when her daughter, Meg, begins to transform into a tree. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that weaves together elements of suspense and emotion, exploring themes of family, transformation, and survival.

The writing in this comic book excels in capturing the everyday struggles of the Hayes family, making their dynamics relatable and grounded. The dialogue is authentic and reflects the tension and love within the family. However, this comic book sometimes lacks depth in character development, with certain motivations and backstories feeling underexplored. This can make it challenging for me personally to fully connect with the characters and their plight.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the eerie and unsettling world of “Family Tree” to life with bold lines and expressive character designs. The illustrations we get in this comic book effectively convey both the ordinary and the extraordinary, capturing the contrast between the normalcy of small-town life and the surreal nature of Meg’s transformation. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict emotion through facial expressions adds depth to the storytelling, making each panel engaging.

The pacing of this comic book is a pretty mixed bag. While this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and sets up the central mystery, some scenes feel rushed, impacting the overall flow. This inconsistency has left me personally wanting more immediate clarity and deeper exploration of the characters’ motivations and the story’s intricacies.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of blending horror with a family drama holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and character exploration, subsequent issues could delve deeper into the themes and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

A new love comedy from Mayu Minase featuring Tokushima, nonhuman entities and, of course, love! The son and heir to an indigo dyeing shop, Riku, has dreamed of going to university outside his prefecture with his childhood best friend and girl he loves but is instead forced to marry a girl named Miyo because of some promise his family made in the past. However, just what is Miyo’s incredible secret?! Tokushima’s very own Mayu Minase sets the stage in her hometown for this youthful love fantasy.This series has been published in Japan since 2013 which Japanese title name is “Himesama Tanuki no Koizanyou”

This comic book introduces an intriguing premise but ultimately struggles to deliver a cohesive and engaging narrative. While the concept behind this comic book of blending folklore with modern life holds potential, the execution falls short in several areas.

The story in this comic book follows a protagonist who encounters tanukis, mythical creatures from Japanese folklore known for their shapeshifting abilities. While this setup promises whimsy and cultural depth, the narrative lacks clarity and focus. The plot feels disjointed, with abrupt scene transitions that make it difficult for me personally to fully engage with the characters or the unfolding events.

The character development in this comic book is pretty minimal, with both the protagonist and the tanukis appearing one-dimensional. Their motivations and personalities are not sufficiently explored, which has left me personally without a clear understanding of their dynamics or individual journeys. This lack of depth makes it challenging to connect with the characters on an emotional level, reducing the story’s potential impact.

The artwork itself in this comic book, while visually appealing, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations capture the playful and mystical nature of the tanukis, with expressive designs and dynamic compositions. However, the art alone isn’t enough to elevate the story, as the absence of strong storytelling and character work undermines the overall impact.

The pacing of this comic book is pretty uneven, with scenes that either drag without purpose or rush through potentially engaging moments. This inconsistency affects the narrative flow, preventing the story from building momentum or emotional resonance. Key plot points are introduced abruptly, which has left me personally without a clear understanding of the stakes or significance of the events unfolding.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of merging folklore with contemporary themes holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and robust character exploration, subsequent chapters could delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

The biggest Valiant debut of all time begins with an all-new prelude to X-O Manowar from visionary storyteller Matt Kindt and blockbuster artists Tomas Giorello, Doug Braithwaite, Clayton Crain, Ryan Bodenheim, and Mico Suayan! Then, comics superstar Jeff Lemire begins the march toward Bloodshot Salvation with the first appearance of A Major New Character! Faith, Harbinger Renegade, Ninjak, Psi-Lords, Secret Weapons, Shadowman, and surprise revelations for Harbinger Wars 2!

This comic book is an exhilarating entry into the Valiant Universe. At the same time this comic book effectively captures the essence of X-O Manowar while providing a thrilling introduction for new readers.

The narrative in this comic book follows Aric of Dacia, a warrior from ancient times bonded with a powerful alien armor. The creators of this comic book creates a storyline that seamlessly blends action and character development, which had immersed me personally in a world where history and science fiction collide. This comic book serves as both a continuation for fans and an accessible entry point for newcomers, balancing familiar elements with fresh twists.

The writing itself in this cocky book writing excels in portraying Aric as a complex and compelling protagonist. His internal struggles and battle-hardened perspective add depth to the character, making him relatable and intriguing. The dialogue is sharp and purposeful, capturing the tension and urgency of Aric’s journey while exploring themes of identity and destiny.

This comic book also features a preview of Jeff Lemire’s “Bloodshot Salvation,” further enriching the Valiant experience. Lemire’s contribution introduces readers to another layered character, expanding the universe with his distinct storytelling style. This inclusion enhances the special, offering a glimpse into the interconnected world of Valiant’s heroes.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the high-stakes world of X-O Manowar to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the intensity of battle scenes and the subtleties of character expressions, enhancing the storytelling with visual flair. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey both grandeur and intimacy in his art makes each panel engaging and impactful.

The pacing of this comic book well-executed, maintaining a balance between fast-paced action and moments of introspection. The narrative flows smoothly, keeping readers engaged and invested in Aric’s journey. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing for both new and longtime fans.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as identity, power, and the burden of leadership. The creators of this comic book these themes into the narrative seamlessly, adding depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the complexities of heroism and the choices that define a warrior’s path, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

When Celsius finds the wheelchair of her late husband Niles Caulder, she begins a journey to find the supposedly dead members of Doom Patrol and recruits Robotman and Tempest to aid her in her quest.

This comic book tries to relaunch the iconic team with a fresh start, but unfortunately, it struggles with execution. At the same time this comic book aims to capture the unique essence of the Doom Patrol, it falls short in delivering a cohesive and engaging narrative.

The story in this comic book introduces us as readers to the team of misfit heroes, each with their own peculiar abilities and personal struggles. The intention to revitalize the Doom Patrol is evident, but the narrative lacks depth and focus. The plot feels cluttered with multiple subplots that are introduced without sufficient context, making it difficult for me personally to connect with the characters or become invested in their journeys.

The character development in this comic book is pretty minimal, with the team members not receiving the attention needed to explore their unique backgrounds and personalities. While the Doom Patrol is known for its eclectic and diverse cast, this comic book fails to delve into the complexities that make each character intriguing. As a result, the heroes come across as one-dimensional, and their interactions lack the depth and nuance needed to engage me personally.

The dialogues throughout this comic book often feels forced and lacks the natural flow that could bring the characters to life. Conversations are frequently expository, serving more to advance the plot than to reveal the characters’ personalities or relationships. This lack of engaging dialogue contributes to the overall flatness of the narrative, preventing it from resonating emotionally.

Thee artwork itself in this comic book, while competent, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations capture the distinctiveness of the Doom Patrol with detailed character designs and dynamic compositions. However, the art sometimes lacks the energy and innovation needed to elevate the story, making it feel more conventional than groundbreaking.

The pacing of this comic book is pretty uneven, with scenes that either drag without purpose or rush through potentially engaging moments. This inconsistency affects the overall flow, preventing the story from building momentum or emotional resonance. Key plot points are introduced abruptly, which has left me personally without a clear understanding of the stakes or significance of the events unfolding.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book does offer glimpses of potential. The concept of exploring the lives of a team of unconventional heroes holds promise for creativity and depth in future comic books in this series. 

I Give This Book 2 / 5

Superstar SKOTTIE YOUNG (Rocket Raccoon, Wizard of Oz) makes his Image debut with an ALL-NEW SERIES! The Adventure Time/Alice in Wonderland-style epic that smashes its cute little face against Tank Girl/Deadpool-esque violent madness has arrived. In an adventure that ain’t for the little kiddies, (unless you have super cool parents, then whatever), you’ll meet Gert—a six year old girl who has been stuck in the magical world of Fairyland for thirty years and will hack and slash her way through anything to find her way back home. Join Gert and her giant battle-axe on a delightfully blood soaked journey to see who will survive the girl who HATES FAIRYLAND.

This comic book presents an intriguing twist on the fantasy genre, but ultimately it struggles to deliver a cohesive and engaging narrative. While the concept behind this comic book of a dark, comedic take on fairy tales is promising, the execution leaves much to be desired.

The story in this comic book follows Gertrude, a young girl trapped in the whimsical world of Fairyland for nearly three decades. Her mission to find a way home has turned into a violent, sarcastic escapade. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative filled with dark humor and subverted fairy tale tropes, aiming to entertain those who enjoy irreverent takes on classic themes. However, the reliance on shock value and over-the-top violence can overshadow the story’s potential depth.

The character development in this comic book is one of the weak points of this comic book. Gertrude, though initially intriguing as a protagonist with her jaded perspective and cynical humor, lacks depth and relatability. Her motivations are clear, but the constant barrage of jokes and violent outbursts makes it hard to connect with her on a deeper emotional level. The supporting characters, while colorful and eccentric, serve more as comedic props than fully fleshed-out individuals.

The writing in this comic book relies heavily on humor, but it often feels forced and repetitive. The dialogue is packed with jokes and quips, but the relentless pace can become exhausting rather than engaging. This focus on humor at the expense of narrative development detracts from the overall storytelling, which has left me personally without a strong connection to the plot.

The artwork itself in this comic book is the highlight of this comic book, because it is capturing the chaotic and colorful world of Fairyland with vivid detail and energy. The illustrations we get on this comic book bring the fantastical setting to life, with exaggerated character designs and dynamic compositions that complement the story’s tone. However, the art’s vibrant and whimsical nature sometimes contrasts sharply with the dark humor, creating a dissonance that can be distracting.

The pacing of this comic book is inconsistent, with scenes that either drag on with repetitive humor or rush through potentially interesting plot developments. This affects the overall flow, preventing the story from building meaningful momentum or emotional resonance. Key moments come and go without leaving a lasting impact, making it difficult for me personally to become invested in Gertrude’s journey.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of a twisted take on fairy tales holds potential for future development. With more focus on character growth and narrative depth, subsequent comic books in this series could delve deeper into the themes and offer more satisfying story arcs.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

Generation after generation, it’s the same old There’s no hope for the future, because young people think only of themselves. They have no respect for authority. They think they know everything. They are arrogant. They are reckless. They want to tear the world apart. In a time full of possibilities, yet rife with disappointment, the youth are changing. They look the same, but they act different, think different, and have abilities we can only dream of. They’re not like us.

This comic book introduces a narrative filled with potential but ultimately struggles to deliver. At the same time this comic book tries to explore themes of alienation and identity through a group of young people with extraordinary abilities, but it falls short in execution.

The story in this comic book begins with a young woman on the brink of despair, driven by voices in her head. Rescued by a mysterious group with similar powers, she is introduced to a new way of life. The creators of this comic book sets up a premise that promises intrigue and psychological depth, yet the narrative feels disjointed and lacks a strong hook to fully engage me personally.

The character development in this comic book is the key weakness in this comic book. The protagonist, while central to the plot, lacks depth and relatability. Her internal struggles are hinted at but not fully explored, which has left me personally without a strong emotional connection. Similarly, the supporting characters are introduced without sufficient background or motivation, making them feel more like archetypes than fully realized individuals.

The dialogues throughout this comic book often feels stilted and unnatural. Conversations between characters seem forced, lacking the nuance needed to convey genuine relationships or tension. This detracts from the overall immersion and makes it difficult for me personally to become invested in the characters’ journeys.

The artwork itself in this comic book, while distinctive, doesn’t fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations we get in this comic book illustrations capture the urban setting with a gritty realism that suits the story’s themes, but the character designs can sometimes appear inconsistent or lacking in expression. This inconsistency in the art style further detracts from the storytelling.

The pacing of this comic book is pretty uneven, with scenes that either linger without purpose or rush through potentially engaging moments. This inconsistency affects the narrative flow, preventing the story from building momentum or emotional resonance. Key plot points are introduced abruptly, which has left me personally without a clear understanding of the stakes or significance of the events unfolding.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of exploring the lives of young people with extraordinary abilities in a realistic setting holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and robust character exploration, subsequent comic books in this series could delve deeper into these themes and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

Y: THE LAST MAN writer BRIAN K. VAUGHAN returns to comics with red-hot artist FIONA STAPLES for an all-new ONGOING SERIES! Star Wars-style action collides with Game of Thrones-esque drama in this original sci-fi/fantasy epic for mature readers, as new parents Marko and Alana risk everything to raise their child amidst a never-ending galactic war. 

This comic book is widely celebrated for its inventive storytelling and stunning artwork.

This comic book opens with the birth of Hazel, the child of two star-crossed lovers from opposing sides of a galactic war. The narrative in this comic book tries to blend elements of fantasy and science fiction, creating an expansive universe filled with diverse species and complex politics. However I personally found the world-building overwhelming, with too much information introduced too quickly, making it difficult to become fully immersed in the story.

The character development in this comic book, particularly of the protagonists Alana and Marko, is central to the narrative. While this comic book tries to portray them as deeply complex and relatable, some might find their personalities and motivations underexplored in this comic book. The dialogue, though often praised for its wit and realism, might come across as forced or lacking depth for those who prefer more gradual character development.

The artwork itself in this comic book is undeniably striking, capturing the vastness and diversity of the “Saga” universe with detailed character designs. However, the visual style may not appeal to everyone. At times I found the aesthetics too unconventional or the character designs too abstract, which can detract from their engagement with the story.

The pacing of this comic book is another potential sticking point. This comic book moves quickly, jumping between intense action sequences and quieter, character-driven moments. While this dynamic pacing keeps the narrative lively, it has left me personally feeling disoriented or disconnected from the storyline, craving a more linear or focused approach.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of mature themes such as love, family, and conflict. Yet, this very aspect might not resonate with all audiences. The inclusion of explicit content and adult themes could be off-putting to me personally because I personally prefer traditional storytelling without such elements.

I Give This Book 1 / 5

Justice aint gonna dispense itself. It’s high noon as McCree takes center stage in Train Hopper, the first in a series of free digital comic shorts that further illuminate the characters and world of Overwatch. Train Hopper follows a day in the life of gunslinging outlaw Jesse McCree, the former Blackwatch operative who metes out his own brand of vigilante justice. In Train Hopper, McCree hitches a ride on a hypertrain to Houston in the hopes of skipping town and laying low for a while. But soon after the engine starts, he realizes his trip is going to be anything but low profile. Written by Blizzards own Robert Brooks and illustrated by Bengal (Adventures of Supergirl), McCree: Train Hopper is now available to read in full! We hope you enjoy it, and stay tuned for more Overwatch digital comics coming soon!

This comic book offers an engaging dive into the expansive universe of Overwatch. At the same time this comic book focuses on the beloved character McCree, capturing the spirit of the game while adding depth to its storytelling.

The narrative in this comic book follows Jesse McCree, a gunslinger with a mysterious past, as he navigates a train heist gone awry. The creators of this comic book creates a story that balances action and character development, providing insights into McCree’s persona and moral compass. The plot is fast-paced and filled with tension, drawing readers into McCree’s world with a gripping setup.

The writing in this comic book excels in portraying McCree as a complex character, blending his rugged exterior with a sense of justice and wit. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, reflecting McCree’s charismatic yet rough-around-the-edges nature. This depth adds layers to his character, making his journey both relatable and intriguing.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the action-packed world of Overwatch to life with vibrant and dynamic illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the intensity of the train heist, with fluid motion and detailed character designs that enhance the overall narrative. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through facial expressions and body language adds depth to the storytelling, making each panel visually engaging.

The pacing of this comic book well-executed, maintaining a balance between action sequences and moments of introspection. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in McCree’s journey. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing for both new readers and fans of the game.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as redemption, morality, and the complexities of justice. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the nuances of heroism and the choices that define a character’s path, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Sun, sand, swimsuits and cool rockin’ tunes – no, it’s not a cinematic ‘beach party’ blast from the past, but a whole new summer splash from Archie and his friends! In this fun-filled free issue, Cheryl and her snooty friends from Pembrooke form an all-girl group to compete head on with the Archies at a summer beach music festival. Will Cheryl’s group be a tuneful treat, or mistaken for bellowing whales?

This comic book offers a nostalgic return to Riverdale, but ultimately falls short. At the same time this comic book aims to capture the lighthearted charm of classic Archie comics, but this cmic book struggles with depth and engagement.

The story in this comic book takes Archie and his friends on a summer adventure filled with beach fun and typical teenage antics. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is breezy and easygoing, staying true to the spirit of Archie’s world. However, the plot lacks substance and originality, relying heavily on well-worn tropes without adding fresh twists or meaningful developments.

The character interactions in this comic book are familiar, featuring the usual dynamics between Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, and the rest of the gang. While the camaraderie and humor are present, the characters feel stagnant, without significant growth or change. This static portrayal reduces the potential for emotional engagement, which has left me personally wanting more depth and evolution in their relationships.

The writing in this comic book captures the lighthearted banter typical of Archie comics, but the dialogue often feels superficial and predictable. The humor, while present, lacks the sharpness needed to elevate the story beyond a simple, nostalgic read. This limits the comic’s appeal to newer audiences who might be looking for more contemporary storytelling.

The artwork itself in this comic book maintains the classic Archie style, with clean lines and bright, cheerful illustrations. The visuals effectively convey the fun and carefree atmosphere of summer in Riverdale, capturing the essence of the iconic characters. However, the artwork alone isn’t enough to compensate for the narrative’s lack of depth and innovation.

The pacing of this cmic book is consistent, but the story unfolds without significant tension or conflict. This results in a narrative that feels flat, lacking the engaging twists or emotional highs that could make it memorable. Key moments pass without impact, which has left me personally without a strong connection to the unfolding events.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book does provide a slice of nostalgic enjoyment for longtime fans of Archie comics. The familiar setting and character dynamics offer comfort and familiarity, which may appeal to those seeking a simple, feel-good read.

I Give This Book 2 / 5