“Breathe Preview #1” By John Sheridan & Kit Wallis Review

Special 11-page preview! China, the late 1700’s. In a village, high up in the mountains, a young innocent girl, whilst out gathering flowers, is called back home to discover that something dreadful has happened to her family. Who is to blame? Could it be the local Bao Gang known for its dealings in opium or someone closer to her? Beautiful art and covers from Kit (Monster Club, Wonderland) Wallis.

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 an intriguing glimpse into a world filled with mystery and potential. At the same time this preview sets the stage for an engaging series, combining elements of fantasy and suspense that had capture my interest.

The narrative in this preview introduces us to a world where air is a precious commodity, and survival hinges on managing this vital resource. The creators of this preview create a plot that is both compelling and thought-provoking, exploring themes of scarcity and resilience. The storyline is well-paced, maintaining a balance between action and exposition, which had kept me engaged from the start to the very end of this comic book.

The character development in this preview is promising, though somewhat limited by the brevity of the format. The protagonist is introduced with enough depth to pique interest, showcasing a blend of determination and vulnerability. While the supporting characters are not extensively explored, their interactions hint at complex relationships and potential for growth in full version of this comic book.

The writing style in this preview effectively sets the tone and atmosphere, capturing the tension and urgency of a world on the brink. The dialogues are sharp and purposeful, contributing to both character development and plot progression. This approach helps establish a connection with us as readers, making the narrative more immersive.

The artwork in this preview complements the story with its dynamic and expressive style. The illustrations vividly depict the harsh realities of the world, using a palette that enhances the mood and themes. The visual storytelling is strong, adding an extra layer of engagement to the reading experience.

The pacing of the preview is generally well-managed, providing a steady flow of information and action. However, some scenes could benefit from deeper exploration, particularly in terms of the protagonist’s background and the intricacies of the world. Expanding on these elements could enhance character development and enrich the plot.

One of the strengths of this preview is its thematic exploration of survival and resourcefulness. These themes are woven into the narrative with subtlety, offering us as readers moments of reflection amidst the unfolding drama. Expanding on these themes in the full version of this comic book could provide additional layers of depth and resonance.

While the preview successfully introduces the world and its challenges, it occasionally relies on familiar tropes and clichés, which may feel predictable to picky readers as myself. However, the unique setting and character dynamics offer enough novelty to keep the story intriguing.

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

“One Room of Happiness #001” By Hakuri Review

That day, she was abducted. But to her, that abduction was a ray of hope — the beginning of a new life. The girl promises to marry her abductor, and the abductor offers plenty of “happiness.” This is the story of an abductor and his victim… How could it be so warm?

This comic book is a gripping and thought-provoking that delves into dark and complex themes. At the same time this comic book sets the stage for a psychological exploration of freedom, captivity, and the blurred lines between right and wrong.

The story in this comic book revolves around Sachi, a young girl who has been kidnapped by her childhood friend, who believes he is rescuing her from an abusive home. The creators of this comic book skillfully create a narrative that challenges readers to question the nature of happiness and autonomy. The premise is unsettling yet compelling, that had drawn me personally into a morally ambiguous world where motivations and emotions are not what they seem.

The character development is a strong point in this comic book. Sachi is portrayed with depth and nuance, her internal struggles and conflicting emotions laid bare for picky readers as myself to empathize with. Her captor, while initially unsettling, is also given layers of complexity, making it difficult to categorize him as purely villainous. This ambiguity adds tension and intrigue, as I was compelled to explore the motivations driving each character.

The artwork in this comic book enhances the narrative, using expressive character designs and detailed backgrounds to create a rich, immersive atmosphere. The art style effectively conveys the emotional turmoil and tension that permeates the story. Subtle visual cues, such as the contrast between light and shadow, underscore the themes of captivity and freedom, adding an additional layer of depth to the storytelling.

The use of space and perspective in the illustrations is particularly noteworthy. The artwork in this comic book often uses tight, confined panels to evoke a sense of claustrophobia and entrapment, mirroring Sachi’s emotional state. This visual technique effectively draws readers into the psychological landscape of the characters, heightening the impact of the narrative.

While this comic book excels in many areas, there are moments where the pacing feels uneven. Some scenes linger longer than necessary, while others rush through crucial character developments. However, this is a minor issue that does not significantly detract from the overall impact of the story.

The dialogues in this comic book are sharp and evocative, capturing the complexity of the characters’ emotions and relationships. The writing in this comic book is both poignant and unsettling, using conversations to reveal the underlying tensions and motivations driving the plot. This nuanced approach to dialogue enhances the psychological depth of the narrative, making it a compelling read.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Overwatch: Tracer–London Calling #4” By Mariko Tamaki Review

Tracer struggles to plan her next move after a friend patches up her chronal accelerator. In the Underworld, an assassination attempt is made on Kace, further fueling the omnic rebellion. Acclaimed Eisner and Harvey award-winning writer Mariko Tamaki (This One Summer, X-23) and kinetic artist Babs Tarr (Batgirl, Motor Crush) tell a Tracer tale in collaboration with Blizzard Entertainment.

This comic book is an exciting and heartfelt continuation of the series. At the same this comic book expertly balances action, character development, and emotional depth, keeping us as readers engaged while exploring the complexities of Tracer’s world.

The narrative of this comic book follows Tracer as she continues her mission to bring hope and unity to a divided London. The creators of this comic book weaves a story that combines personal stakes with broader social themes, highlighting Tracer’s determination to make a difference. The plot is well-paced, maintaining tension and excitement while deepening the series’ central themes.

The character development remains a standout of this comic book. Tracer is portrayed with depth and nuance, her optimism and resilience shining through even in challenging situations.

The creators of this comic book delves into Tracer’s internal struggles and motivations, making her journey both relatable and inspiring. The interactions with her allies, particularly Iggy, add layers to the narrative, emphasizing the importance of friendship and community.

The side characters in this comic book continue to be well-developed, each contributing to the richness of the story. Their diverse perspectives and experiences enhance the narrative, providing a fuller picture of the challenges facing London’s inhabitants. This focus on character dynamics adds emotional weight, elevating the story beyond simple action sequences.

The artwork in this comic book is vibrant and dynamic, perfectly capturing the energy and spirit of Tracer’s character. The illustrations bring the story to life with expressive character designs and detailed backgrounds, conveying the lively atmosphere of London. The action sequences are fluid and exciting, reflecting the fast-paced nature of Tracer’s adventures and enhancing the overall reading experience.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and engaging, showcasing the creators’s of this comic book ability to capture the essence of each character’s voice. Conversations feel authentic and contribute to the development of character relationships and plot progression. The balance of humor and sincerity in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making the 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 justice, resilience, and the power of community, inviting us as readers to consider the moral complexities faced by Tracer and her allies. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

While this comic book is compelling, it occasionally feels constrained by its length, with certain plot points deserving more exploration. However, this limitation does not significantly detract from the overall impact and enjoyment of the story.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“A Countess for Christmas Vol. 1” By Jinko Soma & Christy McKellen Review

Emma takes a job as a maid at a high-class party to help pay off her late father’s debts. Once upon a time these parties had been her life. Caught up in the spell of nostalgia, Emma makes a disastrous mistake on the job. Her boss tries to take advantage of her vulnerability and forces himself on her.

This comic book attempts to deliver a heartwarming holiday romance but ultimately falls short. While the premise of this comic book premise holds potential for a charming and festive tale, the execution leaves much to be desired in both narrative depth and character development.

The story in this comic book follows a young woman who unexpectedly finds herself in the world of nobility during the holiday season. This setup promises a delightful mix of romance, culture clash, and festive cheer. However, the plot feels predictable and lacks the emotional depth needed to engage me personally fully. The narrative unfolds in a straightforward manner, with few surprises or twists to maintain interest.

The character development is limited in this comic book, which significantly impacts the story’s ability to resonate emotionally. The protagonist, while likable, is portrayed with minimal complexity. Her motivations and internal conflicts are not explored in depth, making it difficult for myself to connect with her on a meaningful level. Similarly, the supporting characters, including the countess, are not given enough dimension to make their interactions and relationships compelling.

The artwork in this comic book, while visually appealing, cannot entirely compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations are clean and expressive, capturing the elegance and charm of the aristocratic setting. The art style in this comic book suits the romantic genre well, with detailed character designs and picturesque scenes that reflect the festive atmosphere. However, even the artwork struggles to infuse life into the underdeveloped story.

The dialogues in this comic book are functional but lacks the wit and nuance that could elevate the characters and their interactions. Conversations feel overly simplistic and often serve merely to advance the plot rather than to reveal character insights or build tension. This simplicity in dialogue further contributes to the narrative’s predictability.

While this comic book aims to deliver a heartwarming romance, it struggles to find its footing due to its reliance on clichés and lack of originality. The story misses opportunities to explore themes of identity, belonging, and cultural differences, which could have added layers and interest to the plot.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Overwatch: Tracer–London Calling #5” By Mariko Tamaki Review

The climactic conclusion of Tracer–London Calling! Tracer must stop Kace from enacting a destructive plan that will harm humans and omnics alike, all while helping Iggy escape from his clutches. Luckily Tracer won’t be alone—heroes come in all shapes and sizes. Some are metallic…and others are old friends!

This comic book delivers a compelling and heartfelt conclusion to Tracer’s journey. This final installment skillfully balances action, emotion, and character development, providing a satisfying end to the series.

The narrative of this comic book wraps up Tracer’s mission to bring hope and unity to a divided London. Tamaki expertly weaves together the personal and the political, highlighting Tracer’s unwavering commitment to justice and community. The plot is well-paced, maintaining tension and excitement while addressing the series’ central themes.

The character development is a standout feature in this comic book. Tracer’s growth throughout the series culminates in a powerful portrayal of resilience and leadership.

The creators of this comic book explores Tracer’s internal conflicts and motivations, making her journey both relatable and inspiring. The interactions with her allies, particularly Iggy, are rich with camaraderie and depth, adding layers to the narrative and highlighting the importance of friendship and solidarity.

The side characters in this comic book continue to shine, each contributing to the richness of the story. Their diverse perspectives and experiences enhance the narrative, providing a fuller picture of the challenges and triumphs facing London’s inhabitants. This focus on character dynamics adds emotional weight, elevating the story beyond mere action sequences.

The artwork in this comic book is vibrant and dynamic, perfectly capturing the energy and spirit of Tracer’s character. The illustrations bring the story to life with expressive character designs and detailed backgrounds, conveying the lively atmosphere of London. The action sequences are fluid and exciting, reflecting the fast-paced nature of Tracer’s adventures and enhancing the overall reading experience.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and engaging, showcasing the creator’s of this comic book ability to capture the essence of each character’s voice. Conversations feel authentic and contribute to the development of character relationships and plot progression. The balance of humor and sincerity in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making the 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 community, resilience, and the fight for justice, inviting us as readers to consider the moral complexities faced by Tracer and her allies. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

While this comic book is compelling, it occasionally feels constrained by its length, with certain plot points deserving more exploration. However, this limitation does not significantly detract from the overall impact and enjoyment of the story.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Overwatch #14: Wasted Land” By Robert Brooks & Miki Montlló Review

The Omnic Crisis brought ruin to the Australian Outback. Roadhog knows this better than most. He’s seen it descend into an apocalyptic wasteland. Everything he once knew has been broken down, irradiated, or scrapped. Now all that’s left is Junkertown, the place that hermits, scavengers, brutes, and killers call home. Roadhog hasn’t put it out of its misery. Not yet. But he’s been tempted.

This comic book is an exceptional entry in the Overwatch comic series. At the same time this comic book expertly combines stunning artwork, rich character development, and a compelling narrative to create an unforgettable story.

The plot in this comic book centers on a post-apocalyptic setting where familiar characters navigate the challenges of a desolate landscape. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant, capturing the struggles and resilience of the heroes as they confront harsh realities. The storyline is well-paced, blending action with introspective moments that deepen the overall impact.

The character development is a standout feature in this comic book. The creators of this comic book provides a nuanced portrayal of the characters, exploring their motivations, fears, and growth.

This comic book delves into the character’s pasts and the choices that have shaped them, making their journeys both relatable and inspiring. The relationships between characters are portrayed with depth and authenticity, adding layers of complexity and emotional weight to the narrative.

The artwork in this comic book is nothing short of breathtaking. The illustrations capture the stark beauty and desolation of the wasteland with incredible detail the use of texture enhances the mood, immersing us as readers in the world and heightening the emotional stakes. The action sequences are dynamic and fluid, conveying a sense of urgency and excitement that complements the narrative perfectly.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and engaging, reflecting the creators’s ability to capture the unique voices of each character. Conversations feel genuine, contributing to the development of character relationships and the progression of the plot. The balance of humor and seriousness in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making the interactions both entertaining and meaningful.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration. Because this comic book delves into themes of survival, hope, and the enduring human spirit, inviting us as readers to reflect on the resilience required to face adversity. These themes are intricately woven into the narrative, providing depth and resonance that elevate the story beyond mere action.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, balancing fast-paced action with moments of introspection and character focus. This balance ensures that the story remains engaging from start to finish, allowing us as readers to fully immerse themselves in the unfolding drama. The seamless transition between high-stakes events and personal reflection enhances the overall impact of the narrative.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“A Dating Sim of Life or Death #001” By Waruiotoko & Friendly Land Review

Ryou Hasegawa’s uneventful life takes a drastic turn when he wakes up one day to find himself trapped in a video game with an impossible win or die. Given the cryptic goal of “conquering” all the female targets and no guidance on how to do so, he must rely on the game’s systems to unravel the web of violence and intrigue that has ensnared him.

This comic book delivers a unique and engaging twist on the dating sim genre. At the same time this comic book combines humor, suspense, and unexpected thrills, setting the stage for a series that promises to captivate us as readers with its inventive storytelling and vibrant art.

The premise of this comic book centers on a protagonist who finds themselves trapped in a dating simulation game where romantic choices carry deadly consequences. This clever concept is both intriguing and fresh, offering a satirical take on the conventions of dating sims while introducing elements of mystery and tension. The creators of this comic book expertly balances these genres, creating a narrative that have kept me on edge while delivering laughs along the way.

The character development is a highlight of this comic book. The protagonist is relatable and well-crafted, navigating the absurdity of their situation with a mix of humor and determination. The supporting characters, each with their own quirks and hidden agendas, add depth and complexity to the story. These personalities are not only entertaining but also play a crucial role in driving the plot forward, as the protagonist must decipher who can be trusted.

The artwork in this comic book is a truly standout feature, bringing the world of the dating sim to life with vibrant and expressive illustrations. The character designs are distinctive and memorable, capturing the exaggerated traits typical of the genre. The art style effectively complements the comedic and suspenseful elements of the story, enhancing the overall reading experience.

While this comic book excels in creativity and execution, there are areas where it could improve. The pacing, though generally well-managed, occasionally feels rushed, with certain plot points and character interactions needing more development. Allowing more space for these elements to unfold would enhance the narrative’s depth and emotional impact.

Dialogues in this comic book are sharp and witty, capturing the essence of the characters and the absurdity of the situation. The writing in this comic book is both entertaining and insightful, using humor to explore themes of choice, consequence, and the nature of relationships. The dialogue not only moves the plot forward but also adds layers to the characters, making them more relatable and engaging.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Overwatch: Tracer–London Calling #3” By Mariko Tamaki Review

Tracer struggles with guilt after the assassination of Mondatta. Meanwhile, Kace—the major omnic advocate for anti-human-omnic cohabitation—provokes a rebellion against humans in response to the death of their omnic leader.

This comic book delivers an engaging and heartfelt continuation of Tracer’s story. At the same time this comic book masterfully balances action, character development, and social commentary, further immersing us as readers in Tracer’s world.

The narrative of this comic book picks up with Tracer continuing her efforts to bring hope and change to a divided London. The creators of this comic book skillfully weaves a story that combines personal challenges with broader societal themes, highlighting Tracer’s commitment to justice and equality. The plot is well-paced, maintaining tension and excitement while deepening the story’s emotional impact.

The character development remains a highlight of this comic book. Tracer is portrayed with depth and complexity, her unwavering optimism shining through even in the face of adversity. The creators of this comic book explores her internal conflicts and motivations, making her journey both relatable and inspiring. The interactions with her allies, particularly Iggy, are rich with camaraderie and tension, adding layers to the narrative.

The side character in this comic book continue to be well-developed, each contributing to the richness of the story. Their diverse perspectives and experiences enhance the narrative, providing a fuller picture of the challenges and opportunities facing London’s inhabitants. This focus on character dynamics adds emotional weight, elevating the story beyond simple action sequences.

The artwork in this comic book is vibrant and dynamic, capturing the energy and spirit of Tracer’s character. The illustrations bring the story to life with expressive character designs and detailed backgrounds, conveying the lively atmosphere of London. The action sequences are fluid and exciting, reflecting the fast-paced nature of Tracer’s adventures.

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

One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration. This comic book delves into themes of community, resilience, and the struggle for justice, inviting us as readers to ponder the moral complexities faced by Tracer and her allies. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

While this comic book is compelling, it occasionally feels constrained by its length, with certain plot points and character arcs deserving more exploration. However, this limitation does not significantly detract from the overall impact and enjoyment of the story.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“The Grim Reaper and an Argent Cavalier #001” By Irono Review

Our hero Cyan’s life is changed forever when his loved one’s soul falls victim to a Larvae attack. Grief-stricken, he becomes an Argent Cavalier—a warrior sworn to fight the thralls of the grim reaper. But what happens when an unfortunate event causes him to become the very origin of his despair? Find out in this heartrending, dark fantasy!

This comic book offers an intriguing start to a fantasy series that blends themes of life, death, and chivalry. At the same time this comic book sets the stage for an adventure filled with mystery and potential, though it leaves some room for further development.

The story in this comic book introduces us to a world where the Grim Reaper and a noble cavalier form an unlikely partnership. The premise is engaging, with the creators of this comic book exploring the dynamic between two contrasting characters—one representing death and the other embodying ideals of heroism and valor. This dichotomy creates a narrative ripe for conflict and camaraderie, promising an exploration of deeper themes as the series progresses.

The Character development is a focal point of this comic book. The Grim Reaper is depicted with a surprising depth, revealing vulnerabilities and motivations beyond the typical portrayal of a harbinger of death. The Argent Cavalier, on the other hand, is portrayed as a steadfast and honorable figure, driven by a sense of duty and justice. While the characters are intriguing, the initial issue only scratches the surface of their complexities, which have left me eager to learn more about their backstories and future interactions.

The artwork is a highlight of this comic book, because it effectively capturing the tone and atmosphere of the story. The illustrations are detailed and expressive, bringing the characters and their world to life. The contrast between the dark, foreboding presence of the Grim Reaper and the shining, heroic figure of the Argent Cavalier is visually striking, enhancing the thematic elements of the narrative.

Despite its strengths, this comic book does have some limitations. The pacing is somewhat uneven, with certain scenes feeling rushed while others linger longer than necessary. This inconsistency can disrupt the flow of the narrative, making it challenging to become fully immersed in the story. Additionally, while the premise is promising, the initial plot developments are somewhat predictable, leaving room for more originality and surprise in future issues.

Dialogues in this comic book is functional but occasionally lacks the depth and wit that could elevate character interactions. More nuanced dialogue could enrich the relationships between characters and provide greater insight into their personalities and motivations.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Overwatch: Tracer–London Calling #2” By Mariko Tamaki Review

As Tracer searches for parts to repair the omnics’ grid, she attracts the attention of two very different omnic Kace, who distrusts humans, and Mondatta, who dreams of human-omnic equality. But at his London rally, Tracer discovers just how fragile Mondatta’s dream is. Acclaimed Eisner and Harvey award-winning writer Mariko Tamaki (This One Summer, X-23) and kinetic artist Babs Tarr (Batgirl, Motor Crush) are joined by exquisite colorist Rachel Cohen (Snotgirl) and letterer extraordinaire Deron Bennett (Tale of Sand). Working in close collaboration, Blizzard Entertainment and Dark Horse Comics present fans and players with an exciting new addition to Overwatch’s expanding story!

This comic book is an engaging continuation of the series. At the same time this comic book delves deeper into Tracer’s journey, balancing action and emotional depth while exploring the complexities of her world.

The narrative in this comic book picks up with Tracer, the beloved hero of Overwatch, navigating the challenges of a post-Overwatch London. The creators of this comic book skillfully weaves a story that combines personal stakes with broader social issues, highlighting the creators’s determination to make a difference despite the odds. The plot is well-paced, maintaining a sense of urgency and momentum that have kept me personally invested in the plot and very interested in it.

The character development is a strong point in this comic book. Tracer is portrayed with depth and nuance, her optimism and resilience shining through even in difficult situations. The creators of this comic book explores Tracer’s internal struggles and motivations, making her journey relatable and compelling. The interactions with her allies and adversaries are rich with tension and camaraderie, adding layers to the narrative.

The side characters in this comic book, including newcomer Iggy, are given more depth, contributing to the overall richness of the story. Their diverse perspectives and experiences enhance the narrative, providing a fuller picture of the challenges facing London’s inhabitants. This focus on character dynamics adds emotional weight to the story, elevating it beyond simple action sequences.

The artwork in this comic book is vibrant and dynamic, perfectly capturing the energy and spirit of Tracer’s character. The illustrations bring the story to life with expressive character designs and detailed backgrounds that convey the bustling atmosphere of London. The action sequences are fluid and exciting, reflecting the fast-paced nature of Tracer’s adventures.

The dialogues throughout this comic book is sharp and engaging, reflecting the creators’s ability to capture the essence of each character’s voice. Conversations feel authentic and contribute to the development of character relationships and plot progression. The balance of humor and sincerity in the dialogue enhances the overall storytelling, making the 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 justice, community, and resilience, inviting us as readers to consider the moral complexities faced by Tracer and her allies. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

Despite its strengths, this comic book occasionally feels constrained by its length, with certain plot points and character arcs deserving more exploration. However, this limitation does not significantly detract from the overall impact and enjoyment of the story.

I Give This Book 4 / 5