Category: Comic Book Review

Supercriminals don’t stand a chance in this free full issue of Dan Jolley and Leonard Kirk’s acclaimed action series Bloodhound ! Ex-cop Travis Clevenger was the most effective tracker of superhumans in the country, until he was sentenced to twenty years in a maximum-security prison for killing his partner. Content to do his time, Clev’s plans change when FBI agent Saffron Bell offers him a reduced sentence in exchange for help capturing a superpowered serial killer. Can the disgraced hero redeem himself, and can the FBI control him once they’ve let him loose?

This comic book is an engaging start to a gripping crime thriller. At the same time this comic book combines a compelling narrative with strong character development, setting the stage for a series that promises intrigue and intensity.

The story in this comic book follows ex-cop Travis Clevenger, a man with a dark past and a unique knack for tracking down super-powered criminals. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that blends gritty realism with a touch of the extraordinary, creating a world where the lines between hero and villain blur. The plot is tightly woven, which had immersed me personally in a tense and suspenseful atmosphere.

The writing in this comic book excels in character development, particularly with Clevenger. He is portrayed as a complex and flawed protagonist, whose past mistakes haunt him as he seeks redemption. This depth adds layers to his character, making his journey both compelling and relatable. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, capturing the rough edges of Clevenger’s personality and the tension of his interactions with others.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the gritty world of “Bloodhound” to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the intensity and energy of the action sequences, while also conveying the subtleties of character interactions. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict emotion through facial expressions and body language enhances the storytelling, making each panel resonate with impact.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between fast-paced action and moments of introspection. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the unfolding drama. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics without overwhelming me personally, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as redemption, justice, and the consequences of power. The creators of this comic book weaves 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 morality and the impact of past choices, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

NEW HORROR SERIES FROM THE WALKING DEAD CREATOR ROBERT KIRKMAN! Kyle Barnes has been plagued by demonic possession all his life and now he needs answers. Unfortunately, what he uncovers along the way could bring about the end of life on Earth as we know it.

This comic book delivers a promising start to a horror series. At the same time this comic book sets the stage for a dark exploration of demonic possession and personal redemption, though it sometimes stumbles in pacing and depth.

The story in this comic book follows Kyle Barnes, a man plagued by demonic possessions throughout his life. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both chilling and emotionally charged, exploring themes of isolation and trauma. The plot introduces a world where the supernatural intersects with the personal struggles of its protagonist, creating a compelling premise with potential for deep exploration.

The writing in this comic book effectively sets the tone, capturing the eerie and unsettling atmosphere of Kyle’s world. The dialogue is natural and reflects the tension and complexity of the characters’ relationships. Kyle is portrayed as a troubled and introspective character, whose past experiences have left him wary and withdrawn. However, this comic book doesn’t delve deeply enough into his backstory, which has left me personally wanting more context for his struggles.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the grim world of “Outcast” to life with a stark and haunting style. The illustrations we get in this comic book are detailed and atmospheric, effectively conveying the horror and tension that permeate the narrative. 

The pacing of this comic book is a mixed bag. While this comic book introduces key plot elements and characters effectively, some scenes feel drawn out, affecting the overall momentum. This uneven pacing can make the narrative feel slow at times, which at times made this comic book boring to me personally. However, the underlying tension and mystery maintain a level of intrigue that encourages continued reading.

One of the strengths of this comic book its exploration of themes such as guilt, redemption, and the battle between good and evil. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative, providing depth and complexity to Kyle’s journey. The story challenges readers to consider the nature of demons (both literal and metaphorical) and the struggle for personal salvation.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

SAGA writer BRIAN K. VAUGHAN launches a brand-new ONGOING SERIES with superstar Wonder Woman artist CLIFF CHIANG! In the early hours after Halloween of 1988, four 12-year-old newspaper delivery girls uncover the most important story of all time

This comic book is a captivating debut that combines nostalgia, mystery, and sci-fi elements. At the same time this comic book introduces a compelling narrative set in the late 1980s, following a group of paper delivery girls who encounter something extraordinary.

The story in this comic book begins on the morning after Halloween, as four twelve-year-old girls (Erin, Mac, KJ, and Tiffany) embark on their early morning paper route.  The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both nostalgic and intriguing, capturing the essence of suburban life while hinting at the supernatural. The plot quickly escalates as the girls stumble upon a mysterious event that changes everything they know.

The writing itself in this comic book is sharp and engaging, with dialogue that authentically captures the voices and dynamics of the young protagonists. Each girl is distinct, with unique personalities and backgrounds that add depth to the story. Their camaraderie and resilience are central to the narrative, making their journey both relatable and compelling.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the 1980s setting and its characters to life with vibrant and expressive illustrations. The clean lines and dynamic compositions enhance the storytelling, capturing both the innocence of the era and the tension of the unfolding mystery. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and action through his art adds depth to the narrative, making each panel resonate with impact.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, maintaining a balance between character development and plot progression. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the growing mystery. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as friendship, bravery, and the transition from childhood to adolescence. The creators of this cocoa book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the excitement and mystery. The story in this cocky book invites us as readers to reflect on the complexities of growing up and facing the unknown, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Notorious kink writer TINA HORN teams up with artist MICHAEL DOWLING (Unfollow, Death Sentence) for SFSX, a social thriller about sex, love, and torture that reads like SEX CRIMINALS in Gilead crossed with Oceans 8—with a SUNSTONE twist! In a draconian America where sexuality is bureaucratized and policed, a group of queer sex workers keep the magic alive in an underground club called the Dirty Mind. Using their unique bondage skills, they resolve to infiltrate the mysterious government Pleasure Center, free their friends, and fight the power!

This comic book presents a provocative exploration of a dystopian world where personal freedoms, particularly sexual ones, are heavily policed. Despite its intriguing premise and bold themes, the comic ultimately struggles to deliver a cohesive and engaging narrative.

The story in this comic book is set in a near-future society where a regime known as the Party enforces strict control over sexual expression and identity. The protagonist, Avory, is a former member of an underground club that celebrates sexual freedom. As she navigates this repressive world, the narrative aims to tackle themes of censorship, identity, and resistance.

While the concept in this comic book is timely and relevant, the execution falls short in several areas. The plot is often overshadowed by its heavy-handed messaging, which can feel more like a lecture than a story. While the themes are important, the narrative struggles to weave them seamlessly into the plot, resulting in a disjointed reading experience.

The character development is another area where this comic book falters. Avory, despite being the central figure, lacks depth and complexity. Her motivations and internal conflicts are not fully explored, making it difficult for me personally to connect with her journey. The supporting characters, who could add richness to the story, are similarly underdeveloped, often serving as mere symbols rather than fully realized individuals.

The artwork is a bright spot in this comic book. The illustrations effectively capture the gritty, oppressive atmosphere of the dystopian setting. The art style complements the dark themes of the story, using stark contrasts and detailed line work to convey the tension and unease of the world. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict emotion through facial expressions and body language adds some depth to the otherwise lacking character development.

The dialogues in this comic book tends to be clunky and expository. While it attempts to convey the oppressive nature of the regime and the characters’ resistance, it often feels forced and unnatural. The dialogue could benefit from more subtlety and nuance to allow the themes to emerge organically through the characters’ interactions and experiences.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

Meet NICK SAX – a corrupt, intoxicated ex-cop turned hit-man, adrift in a stinking twilight world of casual murder, soulless sex, eczema and betrayal. With a hit gone wrong, a bullet in his side, the cops and the mob on his tail, and a monstrous child killer in a Santa suit on the loose, Nick and his world will be changed forever this Christmas. By a tiny blue horse called Happy.

This comic book delivers a gritty and darkly humorous introduction to a unique crime saga. At the same time this comic book combines the hard-boiled edge of noir with a surreal twist, setting the stage for an intriguing series.

The story in this comic book centers on Nick Sax, a disgraced and cynical ex-cop turned hitman, whose life takes an unexpected turn after a hit goes wrong. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both grim and oddly whimsical, capturing the chaos of Sax’s life spiraling out of control. The introduction of a tiny, blue, winged horse named Happy adds a fantastical element that contrasts sharply with the brutal reality of Sax’s world.

The writing itself in this comic book is sharp and unflinching, perfectly capturing the bleakness and absurdity of the narrative. The dialogue is gritty and raw, reflecting the seedy underbelly of the city and Sax’s jaded worldview. Despite his flaws, Sax is a compelling protagonist, portrayed with depth and complexity. His reluctant partnership with Happy promises an interesting dynamic that adds layers to the story.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the gritty urban landscape and its unsavory characters to life with detailed and expressive illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the intensity and chaos of Sax’s world, while also effectively conveying the whimsical and surreal presence of Happy. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to balance these contrasting elements enhances the overall impact of the story.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between fast-paced action and moments of introspection. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally  engaged and intrigued by the unfolding drama. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics without overwhelming me, and ensuring that the story remains accessible and compelling.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as redemption, delusion, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. 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 complexities of hope and despair, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Ryoka is awakened by flurry of text messages from her mother! Panicked and rushed, Mom is clearly concerned for Ryoka’s safety but she is not to keen on letting her daughter know why. And the reason behind that is nothing could really properly describe what is happening! The world might be ending! And there might be an unidentifiable being on the roof of their apartment building!

This comic book introduces a dystopian scenario filled with potential but ultimately falls short. At the same time this comic book sets up an intriguing world but struggles with pacing and character development, which has left me personally with an unsatisfying experience.

The story in this comic book is set in a future where society is divided into zones, with Level X being particularly dangerous and mysterious. This setting presents opportunities for tension and drama, yet the narrative lacks clarity and cohesion. The plot jumps between scenes without providing enough context, making it difficult for me personally to fully grasp the stakes or become invested in the storyline.

The character development in this comic book is pretty minimal, with the protagonist introduced without much depth or background. Their motivations and personality are not sufficiently explored, making it challenging for me personally to connect with their journey. The supporting characters fare no better, often appearing as mere plot devices rather than fully realized individuals.

The dialogues throughout this comic book feel stilted and lacks the natural flow needed to engage readers. Conversations between characters serve more as exposition rather than revealing deeper layers of personality or building meaningful relationships. This lack of engaging dialogue contributes to the overall flatness of the narrative, preventing it from resonating emotionally.

The artwork itself in this comic book is one of this comic book’s redeeming qualities. The illustrations capture the dystopian elements of the setting with a clean and expressive style. The character designs are visually appealing but do not fully compensate for the narrative’s shortcomings. While the art enhances the aesthetic appeal, it does little to elevate the story itself.

The pacing of this comic book is pretty uneven, with scenes that either linger without purpose or transition abruptly, disrupting the flow of the story. This inconsistency makes it challenging to maintain engagement, as the plot lacks a clear, compelling direction.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of this comic book offers a glimpse of potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and robust character exploration, subsequent chapters could delve deeper into the rich tapestry of this dystopian world and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

A fantastic ninja comedy!! Beni doesn’t care whether she lives or dies until one day a hero appears before her very eyes. And this hero, who swears his undying loyalty to her turns out to be none other than…a ninja from the past?!

This comic book introduces an intriguing premise of time travel and romance but ultimately falls short in execution. At the same time this comic book hints at potential with its unique blend of historical and modern elements but struggles with character development and narrative cohesion.

The story in this comic book revolves around a time-traveling ninja, Kagetora, who ends up in the modern world and meets Beni, a spirited young girl. While the concept promises action and romance, the narrative in this sampler feels disjointed, with rapid shifts that make it difficult to follow. Key plot points are introduced without sufficient context, which has left me personally confused rather than intrigued.

The character development in this comic book is very minimal. Kagetora, though positioned as a noble and skilled warrior, lacks depth and relatability. His motivations and backstory are not adequately explored, making it hard for me personally to invest in his journey. Similarly, Beni’s character is underdeveloped, with her personality and history only superficially touched upon.

The interactions between Kagetora and Beni, which should be the heart of the story, lack emotional resonance. Their relationship is not given enough space to evolve naturally, resulting in a dynamic that feels forced rather than genuine. This lack of chemistry undermines the romantic aspect of the story, which is crucial to its appeal.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a redeeming feature of this comic book, because it is capturing the characters and settings with a clean and expressive style. The illustrations convey the contrast between historical and modern settings effectively, adding visual interest to the narrative. However, while the art is appealing, it cannot fully compensate for the lack of depth in 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 overall flow, preventing the narrative from building tension or momentum. Key transitions are abrupt, making it challenging for me personally to stay engaged with the story.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book does offer glimpses of potential. The concept of a time-traveling ninja in a modern setting is intriguing and holds promise for creativity. With more focused storytelling and robust character exploration, the series could capitalize on its unique premise and deliver a more satisfying narrative.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

Batman: Nightwalker: The Graphic Novel Batman Day 2019 Special Edition #1 features an excerpt from the upcoming DC graphic novel for young adults based on the New York Times bestselling novel by Marie Lu, adapted by writer Stuart Moore with art and cover by Chris Wildgoose. 

This comic book is an exceptional adaptation of the young adult novel. At the same time this comic book beautifully blends thrilling storytelling with striking visuals, offering a fresh take on Bruce Wayne’s early years.

The story in this comic book follows a young Bruce Wayne as he encounters the enigmatic Nightwalkers, a group targeting Gotham’s elite. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking, capturing Bruce’s struggle to find his place in a world fraught with danger and intrigue. The plot expertly balances action and character development, creating a rich and immersive experience.

This adaptation of Marie Lu’s novel is seamless, capturing the essence of Bruce Wayne’s internal conflicts and burgeoning sense of justice. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, reflecting Bruce’s intelligence, curiosity, and vulnerability. His interactions with key characters, including the intriguing Madeleine Wallace, add depth and tension to the narrative, making his journey both relatable and compelling.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing Gotham City and its inhabitants to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the intensity and energy of the action sequences while conveying the subtleties of character interactions. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict emotion through facial expressions and body language enhances the storytelling, adding depth to the overall narrative.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, maintaining a balance between fast-paced action and quieter, character-driven moments. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in Bruce’s journey. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as identity, justice, and the transition from youth to adulthood. The narrative seamlessly weaves these themes into the story, adding depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the complexities of heroism and the personal sacrifices required to uphold justice, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

Before she became Oracle, Barbara Gordon protected Gotham City as the one and only Batgirl! Witness her stunning origin in this never-before-told story taking place in the BATMAN: ARKHAM universe!

This comic book is an outstanding addition to the Batman universe. At the same time this comic book offers a thrilling and insightful exploration of Batgirl’s origins, blending action, character development, and stunning visuals.

The story in this comic book focuses on Barbara Gordon’s transformation into Batgirl, providing a fresh perspective on her journey. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both engaging and emotionally resonant, capturing Barbara’s determination and resilience. The plot deftly balances high-stakes action with moments of introspection, creating a rich and immersive experience.

The writing itself in this comic book excels in portraying Barbara as a multifaceted character. Her intelligence, courage, and vulnerability are highlighted, making her relatable and compelling. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, reflecting Barbara’s unique voice and the dynamics of her relationships with key figures like her father, Commissioner Gordon, and Batman.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing Gotham City and its characters to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art style we get in this comic book captures the intensity and energy of the action sequences, while also conveying the subtleties of character interactions. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict emotion through facial expressions and body language adds depth to the storytelling, enhancing the overall impact.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, maintaining a balance between action-packed sequences and quieter, character-driven moments. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in Barbara’s journey. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as identity, empowerment, and the pursuit of justice. The creators of this comic book weaves 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 personal sacrifices required to uphold justice, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

With EXCLUSIVE DIGITAL CONTENT including original art! Your name is Angelo Mortalli. Your brother is trapped behind enemy lines and on the verge of– no. That’s not right. Your name is Raymond Garrison. You’ve retired from the dangers of the field, but a desperate plea from your oldest friend plunges you into a vicious firefight that– no. That’s not right, either. You are Bloodshot. You are the shade of gray that freedom requires. The perfect confluence of military necessity and cutting-edge technology. A walking WikiLeaks that is a reservoir of dirty secrets that could set the world on fire. And you’ve just been captured.

This comic book is a powerful reimagining of the iconic Valiant character. At the same time this comic book expertly blends intense action with psychological depth, setting a high bar for the series.

The story in this comic book introduces us as readers to Bloodshot, a super-soldier enhanced by nanotechnology, grappling with conflicting memories and a shattered sense of self. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both action-packed and thought-provoking, exploring themes of identity, control, and redemption. The plot is tightly woven, which had immersed me personally in a world where truth and manipulation are constantly at odds.

The writing itself in this comic book excels in capturing the internal struggle of Bloodshot. The dialogue is sharp and efficient, revealing layers of complexity within the protagonist. Bloodshot’s journey is portrayed with depth and nuance, making his quest for truth both compelling and relatable. This character-driven approach ensures that I personally were emotionally invested in his fate.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the gritty and high-stakes world of “Bloodshot” to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The action sequences are explosive and well-choreographed, capturing the raw power and intensity of the protagonist. 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, enhancing the overall impact.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, maintaining a balance between relentless action and introspective moments. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and eager to uncover the mysteries surrounding Bloodshot’s past. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as memory, autonomy, and the nature of humanity. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, adding depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book is challenging us as readers to consider the ethical implications of technological advancements and the cost of losing one’s identity, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5