“Farmhouse #1” By Elizabeth J. Musgrave & Szymon Kudranski Review

Sam Corneile, a drifter, returns home to take a job at a local mental institution where he discovers a group of patients being exploited under an art therapy regimen. While there, he falls for Helen, a feisty but troubled female who dares him to confront his past.

This comic book gives us an intriguing start to what promises to be a captivating comic book series. In a way this comic book gives us a interesting start to it mixed with eerie atmosphere and psychological tension which makes this comic book series seem have to a lot of potential.

This comic book is set in a remote, dilapidated farmhouse and the story of this comic book quickly establishes a sense of unease. 

The writing in this comic book writing effectively captures the isolation and haunting quality of the setting.

I gotta admit here that the farmhouse in this comic book feels like a character, with its creaking floors and shadowy corners adding to the suspense.

I gotta admit that the atmospheric storytelling is one of the novel’s strengths, which makes this comic book more fun for me personally. Because this atmospheric storytelling gives this comic book feeling of both familiar and unsettling.

The main character in this comic book has a troubled past is gradually revealed in this comic book but also at the same time the main character in this comic book gives us a compelling anchor for the narrative. Throughout this comic book we delve into the main character’s psyche, exploring themes of memory, trauma, and redemption. Which in my opinion makes the main character more relatable and interesting to follow his journey in this comic book because in a way this character-driven approach adds depth to the story and allows us as readers to connect with the protagonist’s inner struggles.

The character development hints at deeper layers yet to be explored, and the setting provides ample opportunity for future tension and mystery. Which I personally liked a lot in this comic book.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative beautifully. The illustrations in this comic book are dark and moody, enhancing the overall tone of the story. The use of shadows and muted colors creates a visual representation of the protagonist’s emotional state, further immersing us as readers in the experience which the main character of this comic book has.

However the pacing in this comic book is very uneven at times, with certain sections feeling drawn out while others rush through potentially significant plot points. In my opinion this inconsistency disrupts the flow of the story, which had occasionally pulled me out of enjoying the plot of this comic book.

Even thou the atmosphere is expertly crafted, the plot itself feels somewhat predictable. Because the narrative leans on familiar horror and thriller tropes, which can diminish the impact of certain twists and turns. And as someone who has read a fair share of horror books and watched a lot of horror movies I gotta admit that the majority of horror elements this comic book uses are very generic to horror movies and books which makes this comic book lack a lot of originality.

The creators of this comic book have created a world that invites curiosity which have left me eager to uncover the secrets hidden within the farmhouse walls. Which means that I will be at least trying to read more comic books in this series.

One of the standout aspects of the novel is its exploration of psychological themes. The creators of this comic book delves into the complexities of human emotion, using the isolated setting to mirror the protagonist’s internal battles. This focus on the psychological adds a thought-provoking dimension to the story, elevating it beyond a simple horror narrative.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“The Devil Cat & The Angel Cat – Trixie’s Stranger: A Moral of the Story Collection” By Olivia Zelo Review

Moral of the story from the world of Trixie, where the Devil Cat and the Angel cat visit her and make her take decisions, where her decisions teach her life lessons and morals. This time she learns what happens when she trusts a Stranger

This comic book aims to deliver moral-driven tales through the adventures of its feline protagonists, but unfortunately, it misses the mark with a lot. This comic book has a promising concept but the collection struggles with several critical aspects. But of course I will explain everything in this review so if you are interested so keep reading this review.

The premise of this comic book revolves around Trixie, a cat who encounters both devilish and angelic influences, setting the stage for stories that explore moral lessons. While the idea of using anthropomorphic animals to convey ethical dilemmas is intriguing, the execution falls flat, failing to engage me or impart meaningful insights.

One of the main issues with comic book in my option is the lack of character development. Trixie, the central figure, is not given enough depth or personality to make her relatable or memorable. Her interactions with the devil and angel cats lack nuance, reducing these characters to mere symbols rather than fully realized individuals. This absence of character depth makes it challenging for me personally to care about their journeys or learn from their experiences.

The plot lines in this comic book are very simplistic and predictable, often relying on clichéd scenarios without offering fresh perspectives or twists. The moral lessons are presented in a heavy-handed manner, lacking the subtlety and creativity needed to provoke thought or reflection. This straightforward approach might work for very young readers, but it leaves older readers as myself unsatisfied.

At the same time the pacing in this comic book is very inconsistent. Some stories are rushed, with moral conclusions reached too abruptly, while others drag on without adding significant value to the overarching narrative. This imbalance disrupts the flow of the collection, making it difficult to maintain interest.

The writing style in this comic book also poses challenges. The prose is often repetitive and lacks the vivid descriptions necessary to bring the settings and characters to life. Dialogue between characters is stilted and unnatural, failing to capture the attention or convey the intended emotional impact.

The artwork in this comic book if present, might have added visual interest, but without them, the stories rely solely on the text to convey their messages. This places even more importance on the quality of the writing, which unfortunately does not rise to the occasion.

I Give This Book 1 / 5

“Highmountain: A Mountain Divided” By Robert Brooks & David Kegg Review

As the Burning Legion advances across the land, tauren chieftains gather for a momentous summit. An ancient artifact, the mystic Hammer of Khaz’goroth, may hold the power to protect their territory, but will its magic corrupt all who touch it?

I gotta admit that this comic book is a masterful addition to the world of world of warcraft comic book series. Because this comic book offers a rich tapestry of storytelling that combines intricate world-building, compelling characters, and a gripping plot.

This comic book is set in the majestic yet perilous region of Highmountain which I found to be very interesting and fun to read about. At the same time the story in this comic book explores the tensions and alliances among the diverse tribes inhabiting this rugged landscape.

The world in this comic book feels both expansive and intimate, drawing me into the heart of Highmountain’s cultural and geographical complexities.

In my opinion the strength of this comic book is in the character development which this comic book is incredible at. The protagonists in this comic book are vividly depicted, each with their own motivations and conflicts. The Tauren chieftain, Rivermane, stands out as a particularly memorable character, grappling with the challenges of leadership in a land fraught with danger and political intrigue. His journey is both personal and epic, reflecting broader themes of unity and division.

The creators of this comic book skillfully weave multiple storylines, allowing us as readers to experience the diverse perspectives of Highmountain’s inhabitants. This multifaceted approach enriches the narrative, providing depth and nuance to the characters’ struggles and triumphs. The interplay of personal ambitions and communal responsibilities is handled with finesse, making the stakes feel real and immediate.

The rugged beauty of the landscape is captured with an artist’s eye, making every scene feel immersive. The attention to detail in the depiction of the terrain, flora, and fauna enhances the realism of the setting, drawing readers deeper into the world.

The plot in this comic book is a masterclass in pacing and tension-building. The creators of this comic book maintain a delicate balance between action and introspection, ensuring that the story remains engaging from start to finish. The conflicts, both internal and external, are expertly crafted, driving the narrative forward with a sense of urgency and purpose.

This comic book has the themes unity, identity, and resilience are woven throughout the novel, adding layers of meaning to the adventure. The authors explore the idea of a divided community striving for cohesion, reflecting broader societal issues in a fantasy context. This thematic depth elevates the story, providing readers with much to ponder long after they turn the final page.

The world building in this comic book is another highlight. The lore and history of the region are intricately detailed, providing a solid foundation for the unfolding drama. The cultural richness of the tribes, with their unique traditions and beliefs, adds authenticity and depth to the narrative.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“MidKnight Preview” By Paul Ens & Tom Hodges Review

Free 10 page preview!! With prospering careers and a three-year-old daughter, David and Tarilyn Deville seem to be living the American dream. But instead of a life of comfort, tragic events in their past led the couple to a life of service — in the ER and District Attorney’s office by day, and on the streets of Philadelphia by night as crime-fighters MIDKNIGHT and KNIGHTINGALE. Or, at least, after bedtime. Animation-style adventures from the mind of Star Wars fan-favorite Tom Hodges, artist for “Star Evasive Action”, “You Can Draw Star Wars” and more.

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.

I gotta admit hat this preview is a pretty compelling preview that had me interested in it with the essence of urban legends and nighttime heroics.

This preview in a way brings to life a vivid tale that explores the complexities of vigilante justice which seamlessly blending action and introspection and had me very interesting in it.

The narrative of this preview centers around the enigmatic MidKnight. MidKnight is protagonist shrouded in mystery and moral ambiguity which I found to be a very intriguing character which made me like him instantly.

The setting of this preview feels like a character itself with its shadowy alleys and neon-lit streets providing the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama.

In my opinion one of the standout features of this preview is the character development which happens in this preview. Its very clear to see that the creators of this preview have taken a lot of care to delve into the psyche of MidKnight, revealing a layered personality driven by a desire for justice yet haunted by personal demons. In a way this complexity adds depth to the story, making the protagonist relatable and compelling

The supporting characters in this preview are equally well-created and well-written. Each of the supporting characters are contributing to the narrative in meaningful ways. 

The interactions between the characters in this preview feels pretty realistic and dynamic which in a way adds richness to the plot of this preview.

The highlight of this preview is easily the artwork which this preview has. The artwork in this preview is pretty bold and expressive, perfectly capturing the mood of the story.

The action sequences in this preview are particularly well-executed, showcasing Hodges’ talent for dynamic, fluid artwork that keeps the reader engaged

So will buy and read the full version of this comic book ? Yes I will. It might take some time for me to actually read the full version of this comic book because I have been way too optimistic when creating my TBR list for this year and I don’t know if I get the time to read the full version of this comic book this year. But I will read the full version of this comic book at some point in time.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Kindred Spirits: Preview” By Maggie Lewinowicz & Valia Kapadai Review

10-Page Preview! A young man, desperate to save his sister from demonic possession, descends to Purgatory to save her. Once there, he must fight the illusions and traps set out for him if he is to reclaim his sister’s soul and make his way back to the real world. The clock is ticking and his only help comes in the form of a mischievous girl in a fox mask.

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 offers a fascinating introduction to a world of mystery and connection which is available in the full version of this comic book. I gotta admit that this preview is very good so such an extent that I’m very hyped about reading the full version of this comic book. Because this preview hints at a richly woven narrative that combines elements of fantasy, friendship, and self-discovery.

The story in this preview centers around two main characters who, despite their differences, find a unique bond. The creators of this preview create a compelling dynamic between them, highlighting their contrasting personalities while exploring the deeper connections that draw them together. This relationship is the heart of the narrative, providing both emotional depth and intrigue.

The writing style in this preview is characterized by its lyrical prose and vivid descriptions. The author paints a world that feels both magical and grounded, drawing readers into its atmosphere with ease. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, capturing the nuances of the characters’ interactions and adding layers to their development.

The narrative in this preview teases a larger adventure, with hints of supernatural elements and hidden secrets that are sure to capture attention and interest. This sense of mystery is well-balanced with moments of character introspection, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

The artwork in this preview beautifully complements the story. The illustrations we see in this preview are detailed and expressive, bringing the characters and their world to life. The use of color and shading enhances the mood, capturing the essence of the fantasy elements while grounding the story in reality. Kapadai’s ability to convey emotion through her art adds depth to the narrative, making each scene resonate with me personally 

The character development in this preview is very very good. Because both main characters are portrayed with depth and complexity, each with their own motivations and inner conflicts. Their journey of self-discovery and mutual understanding is depicted with sensitivity and insight, making them relatable and engaging.

But since this one is only a preview it leaves us with a lot of unanswered questions which really annoyed me personally. The hints we do get in this preview of a larger plot are intriguing, but the lack of specific details have left me very frustrated. However, this sense of mystery also serves to heighten anticipation for future installments, suggesting a rich tapestry of stories yet to unfold.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Bloodshot, Vol. 3: Harbinger Wars” By Duane Swierczynski & Barry Kitson Review

In the deserts outside Las Vegas, Bloodshot has banded together with Project Rising Spirit’s most dangerous escapees. But when the Harbinger Wars erupt all around them, can he shape these super-powered children into a force for good – or are they too far gone? He’ll have to find out the hard way as the opposing forces of PRS and the Harbinger Foundation descend on all sides, bringing about a crucible the likes of which the Valiant Universe has never seen…

By acclaimed writer Duane Swierczysnki (Birds of Prey) and legendary artist Barry Kitson (Amazing Spider-Man), jump headlong into the uncompromising action of Valiant’s first crossover event right here with an all-new, standalone story arc that will redefine the weapon – no, the soldier – no, the hero known only as Bloodshot.

This comic book gives us a solid continuation of the Bloodshot saga which I’m pretty new to.

In a way this comic book is intertwining high-stakes action and sci-fi elements which I found to be interesting and intriguing. The premise of this book is for sure pretty unique and had a lot of potential which in the end this comic book didn’t use.

The writing style of this comic book maintains a steady pace and offers plenty of engaging moments.

However the narrative of this comic book seems like it doesn’t know where to take the story. Which made it seem to be like the creators of this comic book didn’t really care about the storyline in this comic book.

I gotta admit that this comic book offers us glimpses a wider and more extended world in the other comic books in this series. 

There are times where this comic book feels pretty uneven. And occasionally it is bogged down by exposition and a convoluted plot that may be challenging or at least it was challenging for a newcomer as myself to this series.

The artwork in this comic book is pretty impressive because it has clean lines and dynamic action sequences that bring the intense combat and futuristic setting to life in this comic book which I liked. 

The visuals in this comic book are a definite highlight of this entire comic book, even when the story itself tends to bring this whole comic book down a fair share.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“VerityFair: Preview” By Terry Wiley Review

10-Page Preview! Who is Verity Bourneville? She’s a bit-part actress with a heart of gold and too many miles on the clock! Part “Eastenders”, part “Model Agency” (and part “X-Files”), “Custard Creams” is her quest for a decent role–and respite from her nightmares. For “Sleaze Castle” and “Petra Etcetera” fans!

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 offers a whimsical and intriguing introduction to the full version of this comic book. I gotta say that this preview hints at a unique blend of humor, drama, and everyday life, though it leaves room for further development.

The story in this preview centers around Verity Bourneville, a former actress navigating the ups and downs of her unconventional life. Wiley crafts a character that is both charming and flawed, making Verity relatable and engaging. Her witty personality and sharp insights into the world around her provide much of the story’s appeal, drawing me personally into her quirky adventures.

The writing in this preview is characterized by a light-hearted tone and clever dialogue. The humor is often subtle, relying on Verity’s observations and interactions with the eclectic cast of supporting characters. These characters, while not deeply explored in the preview, add color and variety to the narrative, suggesting potential for future development.

The plot in this preview is more a series of vignettes than a cohesive storyline, reflecting the slice-of-life genre. This approach allows for a focus on character moments and everyday scenarios, though it can sometimes feel disjointed. While this structure suits the preview format, a more defined narrative arc could enhance engagement in a full-length installment.

The artwork in this preview complements the story’s whimsical nature. The illustrations are vibrant and expressive, capturing the essence of Verity’s world with a distinctive style. Wiley’s attention to detail brings the characters and settings to life, enhancing the overall reading experience. The visual humor, conveyed through facial expressions and background details, adds another layer to the storytelling.

However despite the good things that this preview has, it still have some challenges. Like the plot being very vague which have left me confused or me feeling that this preview lacks any clear sense of direction on where the plot is heading because it is so very vague. The pacing is also very uneven in this preview.

So will buy and read the full version of this comic book ? Yes I will. It might take some time for me to actually read the full version of this comic book because I have been way too optimistic when creating my TBR list for this year and I don’t know if I get the time to read the full version of this comic book this year. But I will read the full version of this comic book at some point in time.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“The Five Of Us: A Hero Within Them” By Sean Conway Review

This is the third issue from the comic book series “The Five Of Us”. At this point Will and Jacob are discovering how to use their powers and try to avoid conflict. This is easier said then done. Jacob has a man called the Hunter tracking him down. Will has to face a gang called the P-HATS who are all over the neighborhood and school. Marcus now has to make a decision to put his ring to help Will with his problems.

This comic book offers us an earnest and in a way heartfelt look at the superhero genre which I have mixed feelings about for a few reasons. Which as always I will explain in this review. 

This comic book focuses mostly on personal growth of the characters in this comic book and their challenges of heroism which they go through in the plot of this comic book.

The writing style of this comic book carries a sincere tone to it. At the same time this comic book introduces a cast of characters with potential which wasn’t fully used. 

The narrative of this comic book occasionally feels a bit generic to other superhero comic books and it doesn’t quite break new ground because of how generic the narrative of this comic book is.

The pacing of this comic book is steady. Which allows this comic book to create moments for character reflection alongside action which we get in this comic book.

Some of the plot points we get in this comic book could have been developed more fully to add depth and emotional impact. Because from where I see some of the plot points this comic book makes, feel pretty undeveloped and unexplored. Which didn’t help me liking this comic book.

The characters in this comic book were pretty decent for the most part. They had some potential which the creators of this comic book didn’t use.

The story in this comic book sets up interesting themes about identity and responsibility, which had a good premise but I personally weren’t a big fan of it in this comic book.

The artwork in this comic book is solid and functional. Because it is supporting the story well but without particularly standing out.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Spooky Stories: Halloween special” By KG Green Review

Three spooky stories to enjoy for Halloween.

I gotta admit here that this comic book had a lot of potential but in the end this comic book didnt use the potential that it had. But of course I will explain everything in this review, so if you are interested in hearing my thoughts on this comic book then keep reading.

This comic book tries to to capture the eerie essence of Halloween with a collection of short tales, the execution leaves much to be desired in the way the creator of this comic book presents those short stories to us in this comic book.

This comic book aims to deliver a series of chilling tales perfect for the Halloween season, each intending to evoke a sense of suspense and fright. However, the stories often lack the depth and creativity needed to truly captivate or unsettle me personally.

The plots in those short stories this comic book has are generally predictable, relying heavily on well-worn horror tropes without offering fresh twists or perspectives.

The character development aspect of this comic book is one of the weak points. The protagonists and supporting characters are often one-dimensional, with little background or motivation provided to make them relatable or engaging. This lack of depth makes it difficult for readers to become invested in their fates, which is crucial for any horror story aiming to create tension and emotional impact.

The atmospheric potential of Halloween-themed stories is immense, yet “Spooky Stories” struggles to fully utilize this. While some tales manage to create a faintly eerie ambiance, many fail to maintain it throughout. Descriptions of settings and scenarios are often superficial, lacking the vivid detail necessary to immerse people like me in the spooky world that the title promises.

This comic book has an huge issue with the pacing of the short stories that this comic book has. Several stories rush through key moments, disrupting the buildup of suspense and rendering climaxes less impactful. Conversely, some tales drag with unnecessary exposition, diminishing the overall tension and excitement. This inconsistency in pacing affects the anthology’s ability to maintain a steady level of engagement.

The one thing that I really liked in this comic book is the writing style which made me give this comic book 2 stars instead of 1 star. The writing style of this comic book is accessible and straightforward, making the collection an easy read. There are occasional glimpses of creativity in certain story concepts, suggesting potential that is not fully realized in this volume. These moments hint at what could have been a more successful anthology with greater development and polish.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Nightborne: Twilight of Suramar” By Matt Burns & David Kegg Review

Deep within the night elven city of Suramar, home of the nightborne, the orc warlock Gul’dan issues a terrifying surrender the Nightwell, the source of their power, or see their homeland destroyed beneath the heel of the Burning Legion. As evil descends, the grand magistrix must decide whether to trust her enemy or risk all to stand strong.

I gotta admit that this comic book is pretty self-contained yet expansive. And at the same time it has a elegantly written, and visually spellbinding which made me love this comic book a lot. 

The story of this comic book captures Suramar at its most intoxicating in a opulent, cloistered, and humming way. 

The main character of this comic book has a empathy and tension to them. And at the same time the main character has a balancing duty, doubt, and defiance aspect to them which makes the main character have more depth and personality. 

The narrative of this comic book moves with purposeful momentum, layering context and conflict without exposition dumps.

The conflict aspect of this comic book isn’t just good versus evil; it’s comfort versus conscience, security versus self-determination.

I Give This Book 5 / 5