“Copperhead #1” By Jay Faerber & Scott Godlewski Review

Welcome to Copperhead, a grimy mining town on the edge of a backwater planet. Single mom Clara Bronson is the new sheriff, and on her first day she’ll have to contend with a resentful deputy, a shady mining tycoon, and a family of alien hillbillies. And did we mention the massacre? Writer JAY FAERBER and the art team of SCOTT GODLEWSKI & RON RILEY bring you this gritty 24th Century Western with an extra-long first issue

This comic book delivers a gripping and unique blend of sci-fi and western genres. At the same time this comic book effectively sets the stage for a compelling narrative filled with intrigue, action, and rich world-building.

The story in this comic book introduces us as readers to Clara Bronson, the new sheriff of Copperhead, a mining town on a distant planet. Right from the start, the creators of this comic book creates a narrative that immerses readers in a world where frontier justice meets intergalactic politics. The plot is engaging and tightly woven, with a focus on Clara’s struggle to assert her authority in a town filled with secrets and diverse inhabitants.

The writing in this comic book excels in creating a strong protagonist in Clara. She is portrayed as tough, resourceful, and determined, with a touch of vulnerability that makes her relatable. The dialogue is sharp and natural, capturing the essence of a law enforcement officer navigating the complexities of a new environment. Clara’s interactions with the townspeople, including her alien deputy, offer humor and tension, adding depth to the story.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the world of Copperhead to life with detailed and expressive illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the rugged and gritty atmosphere of the frontier town, with character designs that reflect the diversity and uniqueness of the setting. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and action through dynamic panel compositions enhances the storytelling, making each scene visually engaging.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between action, character development, and world-building. The narrative flows smoothly, that has kept me personally engaged and invested in Clara’s journey. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing for both new readers and longtime fans of the genre.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as justice, identity, and the challenges of leadership in an unfamiliar environment. 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 invites us as readers to consider the complexities of law and order in a frontier setting, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

Despite its strengths, this comic book has left me at times wanting more immediate answers to the mysteries presented. However, the engaging premise and strong character work promise further exploration and development in future comic books in this series.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Kirby: Genesis #0” By Kurt Busiek & Jack Kirby & Alex Ross Review

The Kirby Event of the new millennium begins here, brought to you by the best-selling and award-winning creators of MARVELS! The Pioneer 10 space probe carried a message to the stars. Now an answer’s on the way – but not one we expected! When it arrives, the lives of three ordinary people – and the entire world – will be changed forever. Featuring Captain Victory, Silver Star and more of Jack Kirby’s greatest concepts, including characters never before seen in comics form! Kurt Busiek (Astro City) and Alex Ross (Kingdom Come) team up for their first full collaboration since 1994, with finished art (from Alex’s layouts) by Jack Herbert (Black Terror). Don’t miss this tantalizing prelude to GENESIS – a bold, explosive adventure debuting a universe of wild Kirby creations! This is the beginning.

This comic book is a captivating introduction to a universe inspired by the legendary Jack Kirby. At the same time this comic book serves as a love letter to Kirby’s creativity, setting the stage for an expansive and imaginative narrative.

The story in this comic book kicks off with a cosmic event that sets the wheels in motion for a universe teeming with heroes, villains, and cosmic wonders. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that honors Kirby’s legacy while infusing it with fresh energy. The plot weaves together elements of science fiction and fantasy, capturing the essence of wonder and exploration that defined Kirby’s work.

The writing itself in this comic book excels in its ability to balance nostalgia with innovation. The dialogue is sharp, capturing the grandeur and excitement of the unfolding cosmic drama. The narrative effectively introduces key characters and concepts, ensuring that both new readers and longtime fans can appreciate the expansive world being built.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book. The illustrations we get own this comic book are stunning, capturing the dynamic and larger-than-life style that Kirby was known for. The artwork in this comic book has a realistic and detailed character designs while mixing it with energy and movement to the panels in this comic book.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between action, exposition, and character introduction. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and eager to uncover more about the mysterious cosmic event and its implications. The creators of this comic book effectively sets up the series’ overarching themes and conflicts, leaving readers with a sense of anticipation for what’s to come.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as creation, legacy, and the infinite possibilities of the universe. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, adding depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the impact of creativity and imagination, celebrating the enduring influence of Kirby’s visionary work.

Despite its strengths, this comic book have felt a bit overwhelming to me personally. As it introduces a wide array of characters and concepts in a short span. However, the engaging storytelling and striking visuals promise further exploration and development in future installments.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Sonic the Hedgehog FCBD 2022” By Ian Flynn & Adam Bryce Thomas Review

Sonic’s racing into a brand-new adventure with his best buds (and co-stars of the hit new movie) Tails and Knuckles by his side! But Sonic’s not the only super-speedster in town . . . Get caught up with everything you need to know about Sonic’s evil counterpart Surge before she and Sonic go head-to-head in the epic issue #50, a story years in the making!

This comic book offers an enjoyable, albeit familiar, adventure in the Sonic universe. At the same time this comic book provides a nostalgic trip for longtime fans while introducing new readers to the vibrant world of Sonic.

The story in this comic book follows Sonic and his friends as they confront classic nemesis Dr. Eggman in yet another high-speed quest. The narrative we get in this comic book captures the lively spirit of the Sonic franchise, blending action, humor, and camaraderie. The plot is straightforward and engaging, though it occasionally leans heavily on well-worn tropes.

The writing in this comic book excels in character interactions, capturing the essence of each beloved character. Sonic’s dynamic with Tails, Knuckles, and Amy shines through with witty dialogue and playful banter. However, the story’s predictability can leave those seeking deeper narrative twists a bit underwhelmed which it did to me at times.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a highlight of this comic book, because it is bringing the energetic world of Sonic to life with dynamic illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the fluidity and speed of the characters, enhancing the action sequences with a sense of motion and excitement. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through expressive character designs adds depth to the storytelling, making each panel visually engaging.

The pacing of this comic book is brisk, maintaining a steady flow that has kept me personally engaged from start to finish. The narrative moves quickly, mirroring Sonic’s own speed, which suits the action-oriented nature of the story. However, this fast pace leaves little room for deeper character development or exploration of new themes.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to capture the essence of the Sonic franchise, providing fans with a familiar experience that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The creators of this comic book successfully balances action with humor, ensuring that the story remains accessible and entertaining for both new readers and longtime fans.

Despite its strengths, this comic book has left me personal at times wanting more complexity in terms of plot and character arcs. The reliance on familiar elements can make the story feel somewhat predictable, lacking the depth that could elevate it beyond a fun, quick read.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Rat Queens Webcomics” By Kurtis J. Wiebe & Max Dunbar & Will Kirkby Review

This comedy packed collection of Rat Queens Webcomics features art from some of the industry’s top talents, all written by series author Kurtis Wiebe. From Betty tripping out with magical fairies to the Four Daves getting sweaty on the whackball field, get a taste of the adventure, comedy and heart you can expect in the brand new upcoming Rat Queens #1, out March 1st!

This comic book tries to to bring the beloved fantasy series to the webcomic format but falls short. While the original series is known for its vibrant characters and engaging storytelling, this comic book struggles with cohesion and depth.

The narrative in this comic book follows the Rat Queens, a group of fierce and irreverent adventurers, as they embark on new quests. However, the webcomic format which this comic book has seems to hinder the storytelling rather than enhance it. The plot feels fragmented, with abrupt transitions that make it difficult for me personally to fully engage with the story or invest in the characters’ journeys.

The character development, a strength in the original series, is notably lacking in this comic book. The Queens (Hannah, Violet, Dee, and Betty) appear more as caricatures of their former selves. Their personalities and motivations are underexplored, which has left me personally without the strong emotional connection that made the original series compelling. This superficial portrayal diminishes the impact of their interactions and adventures.

The writing in this comic book typically sharp and witty, feels diluted in this format. The dialogue lacks the punch and humor that fans have come to expect, often feeling forced or clichéd. The webcomic format might have been an opportunity to explore the characters in new ways, but instead, it limits the depth and nuance of their personalities and relationships.

The artwork itself in this comic book, visually appealing, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the chaotic and whimsical nature of the Rat Queens’ world, with dynamic character designs and vibrant settings. However, the art alone isn’t enough to elevate the story, as the absence of strong storytelling and character work undermines the overall impact.

The pacing of this comic book is inconsistent, with scenes that either linger without purpose or rush through potentially engaging moments. This inconsistency affects the overall flow, preventing the narrative from building momentum or emotional resonance. Key plot points are introduced abruptly, which has left me personally without a clear understanding of the stakes or significance of the events unfolding.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of adapting “Rat Queens” into a comic book holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and robust character exploration, subsequent entries could delve deeper into the themes and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 1 / 5

“Blade Runner 2019 FCBD” By Michael Green & Mike Johnson & Andres Guinaldo Review

The early Nexus models were intended to reassure the public – and corporate interests – that Replicants were viable replacements to perform jobs considered too hazardous or mundane for humans.

This comic book is a captivating expansion of the Blade Runner universe. At the same time this comic book captures the essence of the film while introducing fresh elements that enrich the narrative.

This comic book is set in the dystopian future of 2019 Los Angeles, the story follows Aahna “Ash” Ashina, a skilled Blade Runner tasked with hunting down rogue replicants. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking, exploring themes of identity, humanity, and morality. The plot is tightly woven, which had drawn me personally into a world where the lines between human and machine blur.

The writing in this comic book excels in capturing the noir atmosphere that defines the Blade Runner franchise. Dialogue is crisp and reflective, adding depth to the characters and their interactions. Ash is portrayed as a complex and compelling protagonist, whose internal struggles and ethical dilemmas resonate throughout the narrative. Her character development is handled with nuance, making her journey both relatable and intriguing.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the gritty, rain-soaked streets of Los Angeles to life with stunning detail. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the mood and aesthetic of the Blade Runner world, from the neon-lit cityscapes to the dark, shadowy alleyways. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through character expressions and dynamic compositions enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually captivating.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, maintaining a balance between action and introspection. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in Ash’s mission. The creators of this comic book effectively introduce key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing for both new readers and longtime fans of the series.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as identity, survival, and the nature of humanity. The creators of this comic book weave these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the complexities of what it means to be human and the moral implications of creating artificial life, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“DC’s Year of the Villain Special #1” By James Tynion IV & Tom King & Brian Michael Bendis Review

Evil is winning! Lex Luthor and The Legion of Doom conspire with Cosmic Gods, bending mankind toward a dark destiny. Elsewhere, the scourge of Leviathan spreads unchecked, seizing power in every corner of the world. And all the while the Batman Who Laughs busies himself in the shadows, aligned with no one-yet with sinister plans for all.

This comic book is a thrilling and masterfully crafted comic book. At the same time this comic book sets the stage for a universe-wide event, expertly weaving together multiple storylines that highlight the dark and complex world of DC’s most notorious villains.

This comic book opens with Lex Luthor, who is at the heart of a grand scheme that promises to reshape the balance of power across the DC Universe. The writing in this comic book captures Luthor’s cunning and ambition perfectly, setting him up as a formidable mastermind. The narrative explores the depths of his character, providing insight into his motivations and the lengths he will go to achieve his goals.

Tom King contributes a compelling segment focusing on the machinations of other key villains. His writing delves into their psyches, exploring their motivations and adding layers of complexity to their characters. King’s ability to humanize these villains while maintaining their menacing nature creates a captivating dynamic that has kept me personally engaged.

Brian Michael Bendis introduces an element of intrigue and suspense, effectively setting the tone for the chaos that is about to unfold. His contribution ties seamlessly into the overarching narrative, ensuring that this comic book flows smoothly from one storyline to the next. Bendis’s dialogue is sharp and engaging, capturing the tension and stakes of the unfolding drama.

The artwork throughout this comic book is exceptional, with each artist bringing their unique style to the table. The illustrations are dynamic and detailed, capturing both the grandeur of the villains’ schemes and the subtleties of their character interactions. The art effectively enhances the storytelling, which had drawn me personally into the dark and twisted world of the villains.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as power, ambition, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. The creators of this comic book weave these themes into the narrative seamlessly, adding depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the complexities of morality and the choices that define a villain’s path, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, maintaining a balance between intense action sequences and character-driven moments. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the fates of the characters. The seamless integration of multiple storylines ensures that this comic book remains accessible and intriguing for both new readers and longtime fans.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Styx & Stone #2 (Styx & Stone)” By Adam Gragg & Darren G. Davis & Stefano Cardoselli Review

If the gruesome murder of a college student wasn’t bad enough, apathetic detective Mel Stone has to deal with monsters inside his own head – or at least a monster in the form of the criminal James Wyatt! After a scintillating visit from the fates, Mel is one step closer to uncovering the reason why he must share his body with Wyatt. Meanwhile, rookie Detective Claire Sanchez prepares to dive right into the criminal underworld and finds herself in over her head!

This comic book is a thrilling continuation of the supernatural detective series. At the same time this comic book builds on the foundation laid in the debut, delivering a gripping narrative filled with mystery, dark humor, and atmospheric artistry.

The story in this comic book follows Jacob Stone, a detective with a unique ability to communicate with the supernatural, as he delves deeper into a world where the line between the living and the dead is blurred. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that is both engaging and complex, weaving together elements of noir and horror to create a compelling tapestry of intrigue. The plot thickens with unexpected twists, which has kept me personally on the edge of my seat while exploring the darker corners of the supernatural world which this comic book offers us. 

The character development is a standout in this comic book. Jacob Stone is portrayed with depth and nuance, showcasing his internal struggles and moral dilemmas. The creators of this comic book excel at fleshing out Stone’s character, making him both relatable and enigmatic. The supporting cast is equally compelling, each with their own secrets and motivations that add layers to the narrative.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a perfect match for the tone of the series. The gritty, expressive style of the artwork in this comic book captures the eerie and unsettling atmosphere that defines “Styx & Stone.” The illustrations of this comic book are both dynamic and detailed, effectively conveying the tension and drama of the storyline. The use of shadow and contrast enhances the mood, creating a visually immersive experience that had drawn me personally into the haunting world.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to balance action and introspection. The creators of this comic book ensure that the narrative remains fast-paced and exciting while allowing for moments of character reflection and emotional depth. This balance keeps the story engaging and ensures that has kept me personally invested in both the plot and the characters.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, maintaining a rhythm that has kept me personally engaged from start to finish. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a sense of progression and momentum that propels the narrative forward. This well-executed pacing ensures that the story flows smoothly, making for a satisfying and immersive reading experience.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Herald: Lovecraft & Tesla Vol. 1: History in the Making” By John Reilly & Dexter Weeks & Tom Rogers Review

While searching for Amelia Earhart, famed inventor Nikola Tesla is forced to work with reclusive horror writer HP Lovecraft as they race against a conspiracy of Cthulhu cultists for an extant copy of the original Necronomicon. Collects Lovecraft & Tesla 1-3.

This comic book is an intriguing and inventive blend of historical fiction, science fiction, and fantasy. At the same time this comic book brings together the unlikely duo of H.P. Lovecraft and Nikola Tesla in a narrative that is as entertaining as it is imaginative.

The story in this comic book kicks off with a mysterious and thrilling premise: Lovecraft and Tesla are drawn together by strange occurrences that hint at otherworldly forces at play. The creators of this comic book weaves a plot that skillfully combines elements of cosmic horror with scientific curiosity, capturing the essence of both historical figures while placing them in an entirely new context. The narrative is fast-paced and filled with twists, that have kept me engaged from start to finish.

The characterization is a highlight of this comic book. Lovecraft is portrayed with his characteristic eccentricity and fascination with the macabre, while Tesla’s brilliance and inventiveness shine through. Their dynamic is both humorous and compelling, as they navigate a world filled with supernatural threats and scientific mysteries. The supporting characters also add depth to the story, complementing the main duo’s journey and enriching the overall narrative.

The artwork in this comic book perfectly complements the tone of the story. The illustrations are detailed and expressive, capturing the era’s aesthetic while adding a fantastical touch. The character designs are distinctive, and the scenes are rendered with a blend of realism and whimsy that suits the story’s genre-bending nature.

While this comic book is successful in many areas, there are moments where the plot feels slightly overstuffed. The ambitious blending of genres and historical elements can occasionally lead to a sense of narrative overload. However, this is a minor drawback, as the story’s creativity and energy largely compensate for these moments.

The dialogues in this comic book are witty and engaging, capturing the distinct voices of Lovecraft and Tesla while driving the plot forward. The writing in this comic book balances humor with suspense, maintaining a lively pace that have kept me personally entertained. The interactions between characters are a particular strength, providing insight into their personalities and enhancing the development of their relationships.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Ivy: Preview” By Sarah Oleksyk Review

10-Page Preview! Ivy, a teenager from a small town longs to leave and pursue her dream of becoming a painter. But life isn’t easy when you never know the right thing to say. After beginning a long-distance relationship with a kindred spirit, Ivy gets a glimpse of freedom too good to pass up. Only while trying to escape her troubles does she start to understand that while she can leave home, she can’t run away from herself.

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

This preview offers a compelling glimpse into the world of a young girl’s coming-of-age journey. This preview sets the stage for an exploration of adolescence, identity, and the complexities of growing up.

The narrative in this preview centers around Ivy, a high school student navigating the challenges of teenage life. The creators of this preview create a story that resonates with authenticity, capturing the emotional turbulence and self-discovery inherent in this life stage. Ivy’s character is relatable and well-developed, her struggles and aspirations depicted with sincerity and depth.

The writing in this preview excels in its ability to portray the nuances of teenage life. The dialogue is natural and engaging, reflecting the genuine interactions between Ivy and her peers. Her internal monologues provide insight into her thoughts and feelings, allowing us as readers to connect with her on a personal level. The themes of friendship, ambition, and self-exploration are skillfully woven into the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of experiences that many will find familiar.

The artwork in this preview complements the narrative beautifully. The illustrations are expressive and detailed, capturing the subtleties of emotion and setting. The character designs are distinctive, with each figure brought to life through careful attention to detail. The art style enhances the realism of the story, grounding it in a world that feels both familiar and inviting.

The use of shading and line work in this preview adds depth and dimension to the visuals, creating an immersive experience for us as readers. This artistic approach ensures that the visuals support and enhance the emotional impact of the narrative.

While this preview succeeds in many areas, it had left me wanting more in terms of plot development. As a preview, it provides a tantalizing introduction to Ivy’s world but stops short of delving deeply into the overarching storyline. I personally have found myself  eager for more context and progression, hoping to see how Ivy’s journey unfolds in greater detail.

Despite this, this preview effectively sets up the potential for a rich and engaging series. The foundation laid in this initial glimpse suggests a story filled with growth, challenges, and introspection. This preview has the ability to capture the essence of adolescence promises a narrative that will resonate with readers of all ages, particularly those who appreciate character-driven storytelling.

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

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Archer & Armstrong, Vol. 3: Far Faraway” By Fred Van Lente &  Pere Pérez & Clayton Henry Review

Mary-Maria, Archer’s arch-nemesis/love interest/adopted sister, is back and dead-set on taking over the Sect by any means necessary. What better way to seize control of the most secret of secret societies than by unlocking their most secretive of secrets inside the secretest place on Earth? Now, as Mary-Maria sneaks her way inside Area 51 to claim a long-hidden prize, Archer & Armstrong are about to discover the forbidden history that binds America’s blackest black-ops base to the time-lost lands of the Faraway – and wind up fighting their way through each of its tightly guarded mysteries, one punch at a time.

This comic book is an engaging and adventurous installment in the Valiant series. At the same time this comic book continues the duo’s escapades with a perfect blend of humor, action, and intriguing plot twists.

The story in this comic book takes Archer and Armstrong on a wild journey to the mysterious land of Faraway, a place filled with dinosaurs, aliens, and bizarre technologies. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking, exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and the clash of ancient and modern worlds. The plot is well-paced, which have kept me engaged with unexpected developments and clever humor.

Archer and Armstrong’s dynamic remains a highlight of the series and this comic book. Their contrasting personalities (Archer’s innocence and Armstrong’s cynicism) create a compelling partnership that drives the story. This comic book’s characterization is sharp, providing depth and relatability to both protagonists. Their banter is witty and often laugh-out-loud funny, adding a layer of charm to the narrative.

The artwork in this comic book complements the story beautifully. The illustrations capture the fantastical elements of Faraway with vivid detail and creativity. The artwork in this comic book excel in depicting the action sequences, making them dynamic and visually exciting. The character designs are expressive, effectively conveying the emotions and personalities of the cast.

While this comic book excels in many areas, there are moments where the plot can feel slightly convoluted due to the sheer volume of ideas and concepts introduced. I found myself wishing for more focus on certain aspects of the story. However, this is a minor drawback considering this comic book’s overall entertainment value and creativity.

The side characters in this comic book in a way add depth and complexity to the plot. From ancient warriors to extraterrestrial beings, each character brings something unique to the story. This comic book skillfully weaves their narratives into the larger plot, ensuring that they enhance rather than overshadow the central duo.

I Give This Book 4 / 5