Category: Comic Book Review

Hisui, who works as a drag-king artiste in the Kinkei travelling Troupe, is very popular with women. She catches the eye of the Emperor, and gets invited to the Harem. She joins the Harem because the Emperor reminds her of her missing older brother, but the jobs she is given are…? Popular since it was published in “Monthly Princess”, Volume 1 of a Chinese fantasy!

This comic book starts with an intriguing premise but ultimately falls short. At the same time this comic book tries to blend elements of romance, fantasy, and harem dynamics, but struggles with execution and depth.

The story in this comic book introduces us as readers to a protagonist who finds themselves in the Seven-Starred Country, a fantastical setting ripe for adventure and intrigue. However, the narrative quickly leans into familiar harem tropes without adding fresh twists or depth. The plot feels predictable, and the pacing is uneven, with scenes that either linger too long or rush through potentially interesting developments.

The character development in this comic book is pretty lacking, with the protagonist and their potential love interests coming across as one-dimensional. The protagonist’s motivations and personality are not clearly defined, making it challenging for me personally to connect with their journey. Similarly, the supporting characters, meant to intrigue and charm, are not given enough depth or individuality to stand out.

The artwork itself in this comic book is visually appealing, capturing the fantastical elements of the Seven-Starred Country with a clean and expressive style. The character designs are attractive and fit well within the genre’s expectations, but the visuals alone cannot compensate for the narrative’s shortcomings. While the art enhances the aesthetic appeal, it does little to elevate the story itself.

The dialogues in this comic book often feels stilted and lacks the wit or charm needed to engage me personally. 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.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its potential to explore themes of belonging and identity within a fantastical setting. However, this potential remains largely untapped in this comic book, with the story instead relying on surface-level interactions and predictable scenarios.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book’s setting 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 the Seven-Starred Country and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

Miu is an unfortunate occult fanatic, who guzzled down a whole bottle of “Cherry Soup”, the super strong cell revitalization liquid without thinking. Thanks to that, now she’s a zombie. This all happened when Miu’s just gotten close to her crush, Tohno. However, Tohno can’t stomach zombies! Who knows what will happen…?!

This comic book presents a quirky blend of romance and supernatural elements, but unfortunately, it doesn’t quite hit the mark. While the premise behind this comic book is intriguing, the execution struggles with pacing and character development, leaving the reader with an unsatisfying experience.

The store in this comic book revolves around Miu, a high school girl who accidentally ingests a mysterious “zombie cherry” created by her friend, a budding scientist. This mishap brings her back to life every time she dies, setting up a comedic yet macabre premise. The creators of this comic book tries to balance humor with romance and the supernatural, but the narrative often feels disjointed.

Miu, as the protagonist, lacks depth and relatability. Her reactions to the bizarre events unfolding around her are superficial, making it difficult for me personally to connect with her journey. While her predicament is unique, her character is not given enough dimension to make her struggles engaging or emotionally resonant.

The side characters in this comic book, including Miu’s friend and love interest, are similarly underdeveloped. Their roles in the story feel more like plot devices than integral parts of Miu’s world. This lack of character exploration leaves the narrative feeling shallow, as the interactions and relationships fail to carry significant weight.

The artwork itself in this comic book is one of this comic book’s redeeming qualities. The illustrations are clean and expressive, effectively capturing the comedic and fantastical elements of the story. The art style we get in this comic book lends itself well to the whimsical tone, with character designs that are visually appealing and dynamic.

However, even strong visuals can’t fully compensate for the lack of narrative depth. The pacing is uneven, with scenes that 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, this comic book does have moments of potential. The concept of a “zombie cherry” offers a unique twist on the typical romantic comedy, and with more focused storytelling and character development, future comic books could capitalize on this originality. Unfortunately, as it stands, the execution falls short of delivering a fully realized narrative.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

Several years ago, a mysterious space-ship crashed on Marcross Island… in the intervening years, the people of Earth used the ‘Robotechnology’ from the ship to significantly advance their own technology. The ship – named by the humans as the Super-Dimension Fortress – actually belongs to a race of giant aliens, the Zentraedi. As the ship prepared to launch for the first time, the Zentraedi attacked and the crew of the SDF-1 were forced to space-fold away – taking a chunk of Macross City (and its 70,000 citizens) with them.

This comic book offers an exciting dive into the beloved Robotech universe. At the same time this comic book effectively captures the essence of the original series while introducing fresh narrative elements that intrigue both longtime fans and newcomers.

The story in this comic book revisits the iconic conflict between humans and the alien Zentraedi, adding new layers to the ongoing saga. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that balances nostalgia with innovation, which had drawn me personally into a world where epic battles and personal dramas coexist. The plot is engaging, setting the stage for future developments while delivering immediate thrills.

The writing itself in this comic book excels in capturing the spirit of Robotech, with dialogue that feels authentic to the characters and the universe. This comic book introduces intriguing plot twists and character dynamics, hinting at deeper mysteries and conflicts to come. The creators of this coco book manage to convey a sense of scale and urgency, ensuring that the stakes feel high and the action compelling.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the Robotech world to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the grandeur of space battles and the intricacies of character interactions, creating a visually immersive experience. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey both action and emotion 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 character development. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the unfolding drama. This comic book effectively sets up future plotlines while delivering a satisfying self-contained story.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to blend the classic elements of the series with new twists. The creators of this comic book weave themes of loyalty, survival, and the complexity of war into the narrative, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book invites us as readers to explore the moral ambiguities of the Robotech universe, adding layers of meaning to the epic battles.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

KELLY SUE DECONNICK (Avengers Assemble, Captain Marvel) & EMMA RÍOS (Dr. Strange, Osborn) reunite to bring you an all-new ongoing series that marries the magical realism of Sandman with the western brutality of Preacher. Death’s daughter rides the wind on a horse made of smoke and her face bears the skull marks of her father. Her tale of retribution is as beautifully lush as it is unflinchingly savage.

This comic book presents an ambitious blend of Western and mythological elements, but unfortunately falls short in its execution. While the concept behind this comic book is intriguing, this comic book struggles with clarity and cohesion, making it difficult for readers to fully engage with the narrative.

The story in this comic book introduces a mysterious tale of vengeance and death, woven through a narrative that aims to be both epic and poetic. This comic book ambition is evident as she attempts to craft a layered narrative, but the result is often confusing. The plot unfolds in a nonlinear fashion with frequent shifts in perspective, which has left me personally disoriented and struggling to grasp the core of the story.

The character development is another area where this comic book falters in my opinion. While the characters are intriguing in concept, they lack sufficient depth and relatability. The lack of clear motivations and backstory makes it challenging to connect with them on an emotional level. The narrative hints at complex histories and relationships, but fails to provide enough detail to make these elements compelling.

The artwork itself in this comic book is one of this comic book’s strengths, showcasing a unique and expressive style that captures the surreal and ethereal qualities of the story. The illustrations that we get in this comic book are detailed and dynamic, effectively conveying the atmospheric tone of the narrative. However, the artwork can also contribute to the confusion, as the intricate designs sometimes make it difficult to discern action and follow the plot.

The pacing of this comic book is pretty uneven, with scenes that either linger without purpose or transition too quickly to absorb. This inconsistency affects the overall flow, preventing the narrative from building tension or momentum. The lack of a clear narrative direction further complicates the reading experience, which has left me personally feeling disconnected from the story.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book does offer glimpses of potential. The combination of Western and mythological themes is intriguing, and with more focus on narrative clarity and character development, future comic books could potentially deliver on the promise of its concept.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

Thea dreams. Not of a better life, but of revenge on the clan that ruined her family. With ferocious battles between man, machines, and monsters ahead…who knows where her quest for vengeance will take her? Creator DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON (Space Mullet) and colorist MIKE SPICER present a bold new vision, where the beauty and imagination of Studio Ghibli meet the intensity of Mad Max, in this all-new Skybound Original.

This comic book is a gripping and visually stunning debut. At the same time this comic book introduces us as readers to a brutal and emotional tale of revenge and survival, set in a richly imagined world that is both beautiful and terrifying.

The story in this comic book revolves around Thea, a talented artist whose life is shattered when her home is attacked by a rival clan. With her family torn apart, Thea becomes consumed by a desire for vengeance. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both intense and poignant, exploring themes of loss, identity, and the cost of violence. The plot is well-paced, drawing readers into Thea’s struggle and setting the stage for an epic tale of retribution.

The writing itself in this comic book is powerful, capturing the emotional depth of the characters and the harsh realities of their world. The dialogue is sharp and purposeful, reflecting the tension and desperation that permeates the story. Thea is a compelling protagonist, portrayed with depth and nuance. Her internal conflict and determination add layers to her character, making her journey both relatable and engaging.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the world of “Extremity” to life with incredible detail and energy. The illustrations we get in this comic book are dynamic and expressive, capturing both the beauty and brutality of the setting. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through character expressions and body language enhances the storytelling, making each panel resonate with impact.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, maintaining a balance between high-octane action and moments of introspection. The narrative flows smoothly, keeping readers engaged and invested in the characters’ fates. 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 vengeance, family, and the impact of war. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story challenges us as readers to consider the complexities of revenge and the toll it takes on those who pursue it, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Preview the forthcoming full color, original “Space Pirate Captain Harlock” series from ABLAZE, personally overseen by the legendary Leiji Matsumoto! In this brand-new Captain Harlock adventure, planet Earth is threatened by an upcoming invasion by the Sylvidres and despite being banished as a pirate, Captain Harlock won’t give up trying to save the world. Will Captain Harlock and his crew manage to solve this mystery and save the Earth from yet another menace?

This comic book is a captivating reimagining of a classic sci-fi adventure. At the same time this comic book brings the legendary Captain Harlock back to life with a fresh, vibrant approach that honors the original while introducing new layers.

This comic book is set in a future where Earth is under threat from the alien Mazone, the story follows Captain Harlock and his crew aboard the spaceship Arcadia. The timeless narrative in this comic book of rebellion and heroism is given new energy through the modern artistic style. The plot effectively reintroduces Harlock’s mission to defend Earth, capturing the essence of his defiant spirit and commitment to freedom.

The writing itself in this comic book is engaging, balancing action with introspective moments that delve into Harlock’s motivations. His character is portrayed with depth, showcasing his unwavering determination and complex moral compass. The dialogue is crisp, reflecting the tension and camaraderie among the crew, while also highlighting the broader stakes of their mission.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing a contemporary flair to the iconic visuals of Captain Harlock. The illustrations we get in this comic book are both dynamic and detailed, capturing the grandeur of space battles and the intimacy of character interactions. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to blend classic elements with modern sensibilities elevates the visual storytelling, making each panel a feast for the eyes.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between fast-paced action sequences and character-driven moments. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the unfolding drama. This comic book effectively sets up the larger storyline, introducing key plot elements and character dynamics without overwhelming me.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as resistance, loyalty, and the fight for justice. The original themes are preserved and expanded upon, providing depth without overshadowing the adventure. The story challenges readers to consider the complexities of rebellion and the cost of freedom, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Grant McKay, former member of The Anarchistic Order of Scientists, has finally done the impossible: He has deciphered Black Science and punched through the barriers of reality. But what lies beyond the veil is not epiphany, but chaos. Now Grant and his team are lost, living ghosts shipwrecked on an infinite ocean of alien worlds, barreling through the long-forgotten, ancient, and unimaginable dark realms. The only way is forward. The only question is how far are they willing to go, and how much can they endure, to get home again?

This comic book is an exhilarating debut that masterfully blends science fiction with emotional depth. At the same time this comic book launches us as readers into a thrilling multiverse adventure filled with danger, intrigue, and complex characters.

The story in this comic book follows Grant McKay, a self-destructive scientist who leads a team through alternate realities using a device called the Pillar. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both fast-paced and thought-provoking, exploring themes of ambition, responsibility, and the consequences of playing god. The plot kicks off with intense action, which had immediately drawn me personally into a world where every choice has profound repercussions.

The writing itself in this comic book shines with its sharp dialogue and rich character development. Grant McKay is a compelling protagonist, portrayed with depth and flaws that make him relatable and intriguing. His internal struggles and relentless drive add layers to his character, creating a sense of urgency and tension that propels the story forward. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, each bringing unique dynamics and tensions to the narrative.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the chaotic and vibrant world of “Black Science” to life with stunning detail and energy. The illustrations that we get in this comic book capture the vastness and unpredictability of the multiverse, with dynamic compositions that enhance the sense of movement and urgency. At the same time the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and intensity through the art elevates the storytelling, making each panel visually captivating.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, maintaining a balance between high-octane action and moments of introspection. The narrative flows smoothly, that has kept me personally engaged and invested in the characters’ fates. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics without overwhelming the reader, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as sacrifice, the pursuit of knowledge, and the impact of personal choices. 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 ethical implications of scientific exploration and the cost of ambition, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

Monster hunter Stephanie Kane is missing, spirited away to parts unknown by the mysterious Mothmen to be their new queen. Her werewolf kid sister Katie Kane teams up with former vampire thrall and geek-supreme Leonard Duvall, not to mention bat-brained vampire cheerleader Suki Taft, as they hurtle through the very time stream itself on a quest to save Stephanie Kane. Witness as the past, present, future, and the entire spacetime continuum become the Vampire Cheerleaders’ cosmic playground in a finale of epic proportions!

This comic book tries to deliver a quirky blend of supernatural elements and science fiction, but unfortunately falls short. At the same time despite its intriguing title, the execution lacks depth and cohesion, resulting in a confusing and unsatisfying read.

The story in this comic book follows a group of vampire cheerleaders who find themselves embroiled in an adventure that spans both space and time. While the premise suggests potential for humor and creativity, the narrative is plagued by a lack of clear direction. The plot jumps between scenes without sufficient context, making it difficult for me personally to engage with the story or understand the stakes involved.

The character development is very minimal in this comic book, with the protagonists remaining one-dimensional throughout the issue. The cheerleaders, despite their supernatural twist, are not given distinct personalities or motivations, making it hard to invest in their journey. The supporting cast fares no better, often appearing as mere plot devices rather than fully realized characters.

The writing itself in this comic book struggles to find a consistent tone. The dialogue often feels forced and lacks the wit or charm needed to capture my interest. Attempts at humor fall flat, and the story’s pacing issues further exacerbate the problem, leading to a narrative that feels rushed and disjointed.

The artwork itself in this comic book, while competent, cannot compensate for the weak storytelling. The illustrations capture the vibrant and fantastical elements of the setting, but lack the dynamic energy needed to elevate the narrative. The character designs are standard and fail to leave a lasting impression, contributing to the overall lack of engagement.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of combining vampires, cheerleaders, and sci-fi elements holds potential for creativity. However, the execution needs refinement to fully capture the essence of what could be a fun and engaging story. More focus on character development and narrative clarity could elevate future comic books in this series.

I Give This Book 1 / 5

As Hydra puts their plans into action, Nick Spencer and Andrea Sorrentino bring you the opening salvo in a story that will rock the Marvel Universe and leave fans’ jaws on the floor!

This comic book delivers an engaging prelude to the larger “Secret Empire” event. At the same time this comic book effectively sets the stage for the unfolding drama, blending action, intrigue, and character development.

The narrative in this comic book revolves around the increasing tension within the Marvel Universe as Captain America, secretly aligned with Hydra, begins to execute his plan for global domination. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both thrilling and unsettling, capturing the looming threat and the heroes’ struggle to respond. The plot balances between high-stakes action and the emotional turmoil of the characters, creating a rich and immersive experience.

The writing itself in this comic book excels in capturing the complexity of the situation, particularly through the internal conflicts faced by the characters. The dialogue is sharp and purposeful, highlighting the moral dilemmas and shifting alliances as the heroes grapple with the shocking reality of Captain America’s betrayal. This depth adds layers to the story, making it more than just a standard superhero conflict.

There is something about the writing in this comic book that bring a touch of humor and humanity, providing moments of levity amidst the tension. These lighter moments help to balance the narrative, preventing it from becoming overly grim and adding a relatable touch to the characters’ interactions.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing this tense and dramatic world to life with striking detail and dynamic compositions. The illustrations in this comic book capture the intensity of the battles and the emotional weight of the story, making each panel resonate with impact. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey both the grandeur of the conflict and the subtleties of character expressions enhances the storytelling, which had drawn me personally deeper into the narrative.

The pacing of this comic book is well-managed, maintaining a brisk yet coherent flow that has kept me personally engaged from start to finish. The narrative effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, setting up the larger storyline without overwhelming the reader. This balance ensures that the issue remains accessible to both new and returning fans.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as loyalty, power, and the consequences of deception. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story challenges readers to consider the complexities of heroism and the impact of betrayal, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

10-Page Preview! One of Booklist’s Top 10 Graphic Novels of 2008, Joel Orff’s graphic novel Thunderhead Underground Falls tells the story of Jack, a young army reservist who has one weekend left before shipping out for combat in the Middle East. He and a friend find themselves behind the wheel of his parent’s car, driving farther and farther west into a snowy landscape. The book is an impressionistic exploration of Jack’s flight from his future, as well as an exploration of this place that he’s pledged his life to fight for. Jack and his friends want to experience the simple freedom of taking a drive, of seeing familiar things before his outlook is changed forever by the violence that he knows he will soon face. As the hours go by, Jack begins to consider desertion, but he knows that if he stays to hold onto the life that he knows, it will still be changed forever.

This comic book offers a contemplative glimpse into a narrative that blends introspection with a touch of whimsy. At the same time this comic book sets the tone for a story that explores themes of connection, memory, and the passage of time, though it occasionally lacks the momentum to fully captivate its audience.

The storytelling aspect of this comic book is thoughtful and reflective, inviting readers to delve into the quiet moments of life that often hold deeper meaning. This comic book introduces us to characters who are navigating personal journeys, each grappling with their own set of challenges and introspections. The writing itself is gentle and evocative, capturing the subtleties of human emotion and the nuances of everyday interactions.

The narrative in this comic book unfolds at a leisurely pace, allowing readers to savor the intricacies of the characters’ experiences. While this approach suits the introspective nature of the story, it can also lead to moments where the plot feels stagnant. The lack of a clear driving force or central conflict has left me personally yearning for more direction and urgency within the storyline.

The character development is a strength in this comic book, because the creators of this comic book has created individuals who feel genuine and relatable. This comic book hints at the complexities of their inner lives, suggesting a depth that promises to be explored further in the full narrative. This comic book has the ability to convey their emotions and thoughts through subtle dialogue and interactions is commendable, adding layers to their personalities and inviting us as readers to connect on a personal level.

The artwork itself in this comic book is complementing the tone of the story, employing a simplistic yet expressive style that enhances the narrative’s introspective quality. The illustrations are infused with a sense of nostalgia, capturing the beauty of ordinary moments and the emotions they evoke. The use of line and shading adds texture and depth to the visuals, creating a harmonious balance between the artwork and the story it supports.

Despite its strengths this comic book may not appeal to readers seeking action-driven plots or high-stakes drama. The focus on introspection and the slow build-up of the storyline might not resonate with those looking for immediate engagement or clear resolutions. However, for readers who appreciate nuanced storytelling and character-driven narratives, this preview offers a promising introduction.

I Give This Book 3 / 5