“Horror & Suspense Manga Sampler” By Various Review

Featured titles include Parasyte Full Color Collection, PTSD Radio, Blood on the Tracks, Prophecy, and Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun.

This comic book is an engaging collection that showcases the breadth and depth of horror and suspense in manga. At the same time this comic book provides a tantalizing glimpse into the world of spine-chilling stories and eerie atmospheres, perfect for fans of the genre.

This comic book features a selection of short stories and excerpts, each crafted to evoke tension and curiosity. The diversity of narratives is one of its strongest points, as it includes everything from psychological thrillers to supernatural horrors. This variety ensures that there is something for everyone, whether you prefer subtle, creeping dread or intense, adrenaline-pumping scares.

One standout story in this comic book delves into the psychological horror of isolation. The narrative expertly builds suspense through its character development and pacing, which has left me personally on edge. The protagonist’s descent into paranoia is skillfully portrayed, offering a haunting look at the human mind under duress.

Another compelling entry in this comic book explores a supernatural mystery, blending traditional folklore with modern settings. The story is both eerie and intriguing, which had drawn me personally into a world where the lines between reality and the supernatural blur. The characters are well-developed, and their interactions add depth to the narrative, providing a rich and immersive experience.

The artwork throughout this comic book is impressive, with each artist bringing their unique style to the pages. The illustrations effectively capture the mood and tone of each story, from the shadowy, atmospheric designs that enhance the horror elements to the detailed expressions that convey the characters’ fear and tension. The art complements the narratives beautifully, adding an extra layer of immersion to the reading experience.

The use of black and white in this comic book is particularly effective in creating a sense of unease and suspense. The stark contrasts and use of shading heighten the tension, drawing readers deeper into the chilling worlds depicted. This artistic choice not only enhances the horror elements but also showcases the skill and creativity of the artists involved.

While this comic book excels in many areas, the format can sometimes be a limitation. The brief nature of the excerpts leaves some stories feeling incomplete, with unresolved endings that had frustrated me personally. 

The dialogues in this comic book are pretty well created, capturing the distinct voices of the characters and the tone of their respective stories. Conversations are used effectively to build suspense and reveal character motivations, adding depth to the narratives. The writing is sharp and engaging, ensuring that each story had maintained my interest from start to finish.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Midnight Kiss #1” By Tony Lee & Ryan Stegman Review

In a shattered multiworld where every dream is one world’s reality, Matthew Sable and Nightmare De’Lacy try to keep the balance, facing Angels and Demons, Supernatural Hitmen, Tin Men and Aligator Kings at every turn. But when a ‘rational’ — a normal human, unaware of the war within is brought into the fight, Matt and Nightmare must protect him before he discovers what he really is — or what they really are.

This comic book is an exceptional entry into the realm of fantasy comics. At the same time this comic book masterfully blends elements of fantasy, mystery, and adventure, creating an immersive story that captivates me personally from the first page.

The narrative of this comic book introduces us to a world where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur, following characters who navigate a universe filled with magic and intrigue.

The creators of this comic book create a plot that is both engaging and complex, weaving together multiple storylines with skill and precision. The pacing is expertly managed, maintaining a balance between action and character development that have kept me personally hooked.

The character development is a standout feature in this comic book. Each character is introduced with depth and nuance, making them relatable and compelling. The protagonist, in particular, is portrayed with a mix of vulnerability and strength, drawing readers into their journey. 

The creators of this comic book put a lot of attention to detail in building character backstories adds layers to the narrative, enhancing the overall richness of the story. Which made me give this comic book some extra points for doing.

The artwork in this comic book is a visual feast, capturing the fantastical elements of the story with stunning detail and creativity. The illustrations bring the world of this comic book to life, with dynamic character designs and beautifully rendered settings that immerse us as readers in the narrative. The use of shading enhances the mood, creating an atmospheric experience that complements the story’s themes.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and engaging, reflecting the creators’s ability to capture the essence of each character’s voice. Conversations feel authentic and contribute significantly to character development and plot progression. The balance of humor, tension, and sincerity in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making interactions both entertaining and meaningful.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration. The creators of this comic book delves into themes of identity, destiny, and the power of belief, inviting us as readers to reflect on the complexities faced by the characters. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

This comic book’s world-building is another highlight. The creators of this comic book creating a richly detailed universe that feels both familiar and fantastical. The attention to detail in crafting this world adds a layer of authenticity and intrigue, inviting us as readers to explore its mysteries alongside the characters.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Be Internet Awesome Vol.2 : Share With Care” By Various Review

Check out the second installment in Google’s Be Internet Awesome comic series with Tinkle, where you will find out why it is always important to cross-verify and double-check things you read online. Our second story follows Ina, Mina, Mynah and Mo, as they experiment with some crazy hacks they come across online to make Mina a better runner! The internet has a lot of good to offer, but it can be dangerous as well, just as our favourite set of sisters are about to find out!

This comic book offers a useful exploration of digital safety and responsibility. At the same time this comic book aims to educate young readers on the importance of online sharing, providing straightforward advice and engaging content.

The narrative of this comic book focuses on teaching children how to navigate the complexities of sharing information on the internet. It emphasizes the importance of thinking before sharing, considering privacy, and understanding the potential impacts of digital footprints. The content is clear and accessible, making it suitable for its target audience of kids and teenagers who use the internet.

The character development is not the main focus of this comic book, instead, the emphasis is on delivering essential information in an engaging manner. The characters present in this comic book serve as relatable figures for children, helping to illustrate key points and scenarios. They are portrayed with enough personality to maintain interest without overshadowing the educational material.

The artwork throughout this comic book is pretty vibrant, capturing the attention of young readers. The illustrations complement the text by visually representing concepts and scenarios, enhancing comprehension and engagement. The visual style is appealing and aligns well with the educational tone of the material, making this comic book both informative and enjoyable to read.

The dialogues and narrative style of this comic book are simple and direct, effectively communicating the core messages of online safety and responsibility. Conversations between characters are designed to mirror real-life situations, providing practical examples of how to apply the lessons in everyday online interactions. This approach helps reinforce the comic book’s teachings, making them more memorable and relatable for the younger readers this comic book was meant for.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration of digital citizenship and the ethical considerations of online behavior. This comic book invites readers to reflect on how their actions impact themselves and others in the digital world. This thematic depth adds value to the educational content, encouraging thoughtful engagement with the material.

Despite its strengths, this comic book occasionally feels overly simplistic, lacking depth in certain areas. While this simplicity makes the content accessible, it may not fully address the complexities of digital interactions for older or more experienced internet users. Expanding on certain topics could provide a more comprehensive understanding of online safety and etiquette.

Additionally, while this comic book succeeds in delivering essential messages, it sometimes relies on familiar tropes and scenarios that may feel predictable to readers familiar with digital safety education. However, the engaging presentation and relatable characters offer enough novelty to maintain interest

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Alter Nation: The Mystery of Whining Winny” By Tim Seeley Review

GK Delta are the only line of defense against threats that normal humans can’t stop! Are these human-animal hybrids the heroes we need…even if the world isn’t ready for them? These teenage cryptids were subjects of a top-secret military experiment dedicated to creating the perfect soldier, but the truth is bigger than they’ve come to realize. Join the team as they’re dispatched to Nevada where it’s rumored that a monster is menacing locals on the mountain. Have they found a new member of GK Delta? If not, they’ll be trapped between it and the townspeople they need to save. Written by Tim Seeley (Grayson, G.I. A Real American Hero) and illustrated by Mike Norton (Battlepug).

This comic book presents an intriguing mix of mystery and adventure,. At the same time the story in this comic book offers us a glimpse into a world where hybrid creatures navigate both human and animal instincts, balancing action with the exploration of identity.

The narrative of this comic book centers around a team of genetically modified heroes known as the GK Delta team, who are tasked with uncovering the mystery behind a series of strange events linked to their teammate, Winny.

The creators of this comic book creates a plot that combines elements of suspense with light-hearted moments, maintaining a pace that have kept me engaged.

The character development is a highlight of this comic book. Each member of the GK Delta team is portrayed with distinct personalities and abilities, providing a diverse cast that adds depth to the story. Winny, as the focal point of the mystery, is depicted with vulnerability and charm, making her journey both relatable and compelling. The interactions between team members provide a blend of humor and camaraderie, enhancing the narrative’s emotional resonance.

The artwork in this comic book complements the story with its vibrant and expressive style. The illustrations capture the unique designs of the hybrid characters, showcasing their animalistic features alongside their human traits. The visual storytelling adds an engaging layer to the reading experience, bringing the world of “Alter Nation” to life with dynamic action sequences and detailed environments.

The dialogues throughout the story in this comic book is straightforward and often humorous, reflecting the skill of the creators’s of this comic book to write engaging character interactions. Conversations contribute to both character development and plot progression, though they occasionally lack the depth needed to fully explore the narrative’s themes.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration of identity and belonging. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative, inviting readers to reflect on the challenges faced by the hybrid heroes as they navigate their dual nature. This thematic depth adds substance to the story, elevating it beyond a simple mystery.

Despite its strengths, the story in this comic book occasionally suffers from uneven pacing and underdeveloped plot points. Some scenes feel rushed, leaving certain mysteries inadequately explored. In a way this game me the feeling disjointedness and boredom for me personally.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Quantum and Woody Vol. 3: Crooked Pasts, Present Tense” By James Asmus Review

There’s a new scourge sweeping the streets of the big city – ROBO-CRIME! Eric needs to know he can trust Woody – and that means Woody needs to get a job, open a bank account, sign up for a library card, and do all the things a responsible adult does. But when a new gang of rogue mad-scientist super-criminals launch a wave of robot-enabled mega-crimes, will Woody stop them…or join them? the return of Edison’s Radical Acquisitions and the thrilling secret origin of… the one and only Goat! Collecting QUANTUM AND WOODY #9-12 and QUANTUM AND THE GOAT #0

This comic book offers a mix of humor, action, and character exploration. At the same time this comic book continues the unpredictable adventures of the world’s worst superhero duo, delivering both laughs and chaos in equal measure.

The story in this comic book delves into the tangled histories of Quantum and Woody, exploring how their pasts shape their present-day antics. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that balances comedic elements with moments of genuine emotion, maintaining the series’ trademark irreverence. The plot is engaging, filled with unexpected twists and slapstick humor that have kept me entertained throughout.

The character development is a highlight of this preview. Quantum and Woody, despite their humorous misadventures, are portrayed with depth and nuance. The creators of this comic book delves into their backstories, revealing layers of complexity that enhance their dynamics. Quantum’s earnestness contrasts with Woody’s carefree attitude, providing a comedic yet heartfelt examination of their partnership.

The side characters in this comic book adds further dimension to the story, with characters that bring diversity and depth. Their interactions with the titular duo contribute to the narrative’s humor and tension, making the world of Quantum and Woody feel more vibrant and layered.

The artwork in this comic book complements the story with its energetic and expressive style. The illustrations capture the chaotic essence of the duo’s adventures, using bold lines and dynamic compositions to enhance the comedic tone. The visual storytelling adds an engaging layer to the reading experience, making each page a visual treat.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and witty. The banter between Quantum and Woody is filled with sarcasm and humor, contributing to the overall comedic atmosphere. This lighthearted approach makes the narrative enjoyable, even when the plot veers into absurd territory.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to balance humor with action. The story includes over-the-top scenarios and slapstick moments that keep readers entertained. These elements are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, ensuring that this comic book maintains its comedic edge while still delivering superhero action.

Despite its strengths, this comic book occasionally suffers from a lack of focus. The fast-paced storytelling, while engaging, can sometimes feel disjointed, leaving certain plot threads underexplored. This can make the narrative feel chaotic, requiring us as readers to embrace the madness to fully enjoy the ride.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Trenchcoats, Cigarettes and Shotguns Vol. 1: Introduction” By Chuck Brown Review

Introduction to Trenchcoast, Cigarettes and A new kind of crime family begins to emerge in New York City. One that uses ancient satanic rituals to gain the speed, strength and other attributes of demons. When the demonic mob murders the friend of a mysterious hit man named Trypp, he begins to leave a path of death and destruction to avenge her. With this bloodlust he also begins to embrace the darkness lurking within his soul.

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 aims to deliver a gritty, noir-inspired tale but unfortunately falls short. Despite its intriguing title and potential for a hard-boiled narrative, this preview struggles with coherence, character development, and overall execution.

The story in this preview attempts to immerse us as readers in a world of crime and intrigue, drawing on classic noir elements. However, the plot quickly becomes muddled and lacks direction, failing to establish a cohesive storyline. Scenes jump erratically which have left me personally confused and disconnected from the narrative. This lack of clarity severely undermines the potential for an engaging and immersive experience.

The character development is a significant weakness in this preview. The protagonist, presumably a tough, world-weary figure typical of the noir genre, is presented with minimal depth. His motivations and personality are barely explored, reducing him to a cliché rather than a compelling character. The supporting cast fares no better, serving as flat archetypes without meaningful contributions to the plot or the protagonist’s journey.

The writing style in this preview while attempting to capture the terse, gritty style of noir fiction, often falls flat. The dialogues in this preview lacks the sharpness and wit necessary to elevate the narrative, coming across as forced and uninspired. Conversations serve more as exposition dumps rather than organic interactions, which detracts from the potential for dynamic character exchanges and meaningful development.

The artwork in this preview, though capturing the dark and moody aesthetic of the genre, does little to enhance the overall reading experience. The illustrations often lack detail and dynamism, failing to convey the tension and atmosphere that the story demands. The visual style, while thematically appropriate, feels generic and does not engage readers, further diminishing the impact of the narrative.

The pacing of this preview is another significant issue I had with this preview. There are scenes in this preview that either drag without purpose or rush through potentially important moments. This inconsistency disrupts the flow and makes it challenging for us as readers to maintain interest or fully grasp the plot’s progression. The absence of a clear narrative arc further exacerbates this problem, which have left me without a satisfying sense of direction.

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

I Give This Book 1 / 5

“Anything’s Possible with Ultimate Alchemy #001” By Shinkoshoto & Retsu Ayase Review

Maazen, an alchemist in the twilight of his life, has poured his heart and soul into perfecting his craft. Yet, a sense of unfulfillment haunts him. In order to continue his research, he drinks an elixir of rejuvenation, which sends him into a deep slumber. Upon awakening, his finds that his youth has been restored! However, five centuries have passed, and alchemy is nowhere near what it once was.

This comic book sets out to explore a world of magic and alchemy but unfortunately falls short in its execution. While the premise in this comic book holds potential for an engaging fantasy narrative it struggles to deliver a compelling story and well-developed characters.

The story in this comic book introduces us to a realm where alchemy is a powerful and transformative force. The protagonist, an aspiring alchemist, embarks on a journey to unlock the secrets of this mystical art. While the concept is intriguing, the narrative lacks depth and clarity. The plot unfolds in a disjointed manner, making it difficult for me personally to fully grasp the world and its rules. This lack of coherence hampers the overall impact of the story, leaving readers confused rather than intrigued.

The character development is notably weak in this comic book. The protagonist, who should be the focal point of the narrative, is not given enough depth or personality to make them relatable or engaging. Their motivations and backstory are barely touched upon, making it challenging for me personally to connect with their journey. The supporting characters, who could add richness and complexity to the story, are similarly underdeveloped and serve more as plot devices than fully realized individuals.

The artwork in this comic book, while visually appealing in some respects, does little to elevate the narrative. The illustrations capture the fantastical elements of the setting, with detailed depictions of alchemical processes and magical landscapes. However, the art style lacks consistency, and some panels appear rushed or lacking in detail. This inconsistency detracts from the visual storytelling, making it difficult for me to become fully immersed in the world.

One of the primary issues I had with this comic book is its pacing. The narrative moves too quickly, glossing over key plot points and character interactions. This rapid progression leaves little room for exploration or emotional depth, resulting in a story that feels superficial and unsatisfying. A more measured approach to pacing could allow for deeper exploration of the characters and the world, providing a stronger foundation for the series.

The dialogues in this comic book are functional but lacks the nuance and depth needed to convey complex emotions or character motivations. Conversations often feel stilted and expository, serving more as a means to advance the plot than to develop relationships or provide insight. More engaging dialogue could add layers to the narrative, enriching the overall storytelling.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Kamakura Monogatari #1” By RYOHEI SAIGAN Review

Kamakura Monogatari follows the mystery writer Masakazu Isshiki and his young bride, Akiko, on their heart-warming life in Kamakura–but it’s not all fun and games! Masakazu and Akiko get caught up in a series of mysterious events on right after another that require all their wits and sleuthing skills to solve. Full of mysteries and romance, this charming story was chosen as the grand prize winner in the 2015 Manga Translation Battle, and was even turned into a movie in 2017!

This comic book aims to transport us as readers to a world of mystery and intrigue, but unfortunately falls short. Despite the potential this comic book had for an engaging narrative set in the picturesque town of Kamakura, it does struggles with coherence, character development, and overall execution.

The story in this comic book attempts to blend everyday life with elements of the supernatural and the mysterious, centering on a writer who encounters various oddities in Kamakura. While this premise holds promise for unique storytelling, the plot quickly becomes disjointed and difficult to follow. The narrative lacks a clear direction, jumping from one vignette to another without establishing a cohesive storyline, leaving readers confused and disengaged.

The character development is notably lacking in this comic book. The protagonist, a writer supposedly drawn to the mysteries of Kamakura, is presented with minimal depth. His motivations and personality are not fully explored, reducing him to a passive observer rather than an active participant in the unfolding events. This superficial treatment makes it difficult for me personally to connect with or care about his journey.

The writing style in this comic book introduces elements of mystery and intrigue, but the execution is uneven. The dialogues often feels stilted and lacks the wit or charm needed to bring the characters and their interactions to life. Conversations serve more as exposition rather than meaningful exchanges, which detracts from the potential for dynamic character interactions and narrative development.

The artwork in this comic book while capturing the serene beauty of Kamakura, does little to enhance the overall reading experience. The illustrations often lack detail and vibrancy, failing to convey the atmosphere and energy that the story demands. The visual style feels dated and does not engage the picky readers as myself, further diminishing the impact of the narrative.

The pacing of this comic book is another significant issue I had with this comic book. Because this comic book have scenes that either drag without purpose or rush through potentially important moments. This inconsistency disrupts the flow and makes it challenging for me personally to maintain interest or fully grasp the plot’s progression. The lack of a clear narrative arc further exacerbates this problem, which have left me without a satisfying sense of direction.

I Give This Book 1 / 5

“Q2: The Return of Quantum and Woody: Deluxe Edition – Introduction (Q2: The Return of Quantum and Woody” By Christopher J. Priest & M.D. Bright Review

The most demanded return in comics is finally here! The original Quantum and Woody are back! Legendary creators Christopher Priest (Black Panther) and MD Bright (Iron Man) return to one of the most acclaimed series of the modern era for an all-new mini-series! Whatever happened to the world s worst superhero team? Twenty years past their prime, the unlikely crime-fighting duo known as Quantum and Woody (not a couple) have long since parted ways…until a middle-aged Quantum suddenly reappears with a brand-new teenage partner.

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

This preview attempts to revive the charm and chaos of the original series but falls short. At the same time this preview had a lot of potential which it didn’t use and it struggles a lot with coherence, character depth, and overall impact.

The story in this preview seeks to bring back the iconic and dysfunctional duo, Quantum and Woody, in a new adventure set years after their original escapades. While the premise offers a chance to explore the evolution of these beloved characters, the execution lacks the clarity and focus needed to fully engage us as readers. The narrative feels disjointed, with a series of loosely connected events that fail to form a cohesive storyline.

The character development is notably lacking in this preview. Quantum and Woody, known for their dynamic and often chaotic relationship, are presented with minimal depth. Their motivations and personalities are not thoroughly explored, reducing them to mere caricatures of their former selves. This superficial treatment makes it difficult for us as readers to connect with or invest in their journeys.

The writing style in this preview, is attempting to capture the humor and wit of the original series, often falls flat. The dialogues lacks the sharpness and charm needed to elevate the comedic elements, resulting in interactions that feel forced and uninspired. Conversations serve more as filler than genuine exchanges, which detracts from the potential for dynamic character interactions and meaningful development.

The artwork in this comic book, though capturing the familiar style of the original series, does little to enhance the narrative experience. The illustrations often lack detail and dynamism, failing to convey the energy and vibrancy that the story demands. The visual style feels dated and does not engage the picky readers as myself further diminishing the impact of the narrative.

The pacing of this preview is another significant issue I had with this preview. Because this preview had scenes that either drag without purpose or rush through potentially important moments. This inconsistency disrupts the flow and makes it challenging for me personally to maintain interest or fully grasp the plot’s progression. The lack of a clear narrative arc further exacerbates this problem, which have left me without a satisfying sense of direction.

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

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Line of Defense #0” By Ricardo Sanchez Review

The Insurgents have overrun Lyrius, a decommissioned GALCOM outpost in an ignored corner of space. The planet’s proximity to other GALCOM systems, and its poor defenses, made it an ideal target for the Insurgents to claim as a base of operations in their fight. The attack caught the GALCOM generals unprepared, but more troubling than the show of force were intelligence reports on a new Insurgent super weapon being tested on Lyrius. One capable of reaching, and destroying, Earth.

This comic book attempts to set the stage for an engaging sci-fi series but falls short in delivering a compelling narrative. Despite its promising premise, this comic book struggles with coherence, character depth, and overall execution.

The story in this comic book introduces us a futuristic world embroiled in conflict, focusing on a group of soldiers navigating a high-stakes mission. While the setup suggests potential for thrilling action and strategic intrigue, the plot quickly becomes muddled. The narrative lacks a clear direction, with disjointed scenes that fail to form a cohesive storyline, which have left me confused and disconnected from the story of this comic book.

The character development is notably weak in this comic book. The protagonist and supporting cast are introduced with minimal depth, making it challenging for me personally to connect with or invest in their journeys. Their motivations and backgrounds are scarcely explored, resulting in characters that feel more like placeholders than fully realized individuals.

The writing style in this comic book, though filled with technical jargon and military lingo, often feels forced and lacks the nuance needed to create engaging dialogue. Conversations serve more as exposition dumps rather than meaningful interactions, which detracts from the potential for dynamic character exchanges and narrative development.

The artwork in this comic book, while competent, does little to enhance the overall reading experience. The illustrations capture the sci-fi setting but often lack the detail and dynamism needed to convey the intensity and excitement the story demands. The visual style, though serviceable, fails to fully immerse us as readers in the futuristic world, further diminishing the impact of the narrative.

The pacing in this comic book is another issue I had in this one. Because the scenes in this book either drag on without adding significant value or rush through potentially important moments, disrupting the flow of the story. This inconsistency makes it difficult for personally to maintain interest or fully grasp the plot’s progression. The absence of a clear narrative arc further exacerbates this problem, which have left me without a satisfying sense of direction.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of a military sci-fi narrative filled with tactical maneuvers and interstellar conflict holds potential for future development. With a more structured storyline and deeper exploration of character motivations, subsequent issues could better capture the excitement and depth inherent in the premise.

I Give This Book 2 / 5