Tag: 3 Star Reviews

Kyoto, 1936. While a shroud of impending unrest hangs over Europe, in Japan the number of Yakuza members is close to outnumbering the Japanese army. In a government experiment, a group of geisha ladies are recruited to inform on the conversations they observe between the murderers and politicians. However, as untrained spies, the geishas’ actions result in one of their members’ brutal and bloody murder. Written by bright newcomer, Annika Eade, with the dazzling artwork of up-and-coming Brit star, Lee Garbett!

This comic book gives us an intriguing blend of mystery and historical fiction which I liked much more than I expected I would like before I read this comic book. But now after reading this comic book I gotta admit here that I enjoyed it much more than I have expected I would.

This comic book sets the stage for a story filled with suspense and cultural intrigue, though it leaves room for further development in this comic book series.

This comic book is set in 1930s Japan and it follows a group of geisha entangled in a web of secrets and danger. Which really made me intereste4d in the Japan and the stories about Japan. 

The narrative of this comic book effectively captures the atmospheric tension of the era, which had immersed me personally in a world where tradition and intrigue intersect. The setting is beautifully rendered, with the cultural backdrop providing a rich tapestry that enhances the story’s allure.

The main character in this comic book is a geisha named Kimi, is skillfully portrayed with a blend of grace and complexity. Her dual life as both an entertainer and a detective adds depth to her character, making her both relatable and intriguing. 

The creators of this comic book successfully conveys Kimi’s internal struggles and the societal expectations she faces, which are central to the plot’s unfolding mystery. Which made me give this comic book some extra points for.

The artwork in this comic book easily and very well complements the narrative, bringing the characters and setting to life with detailed illustrations. The use of shading and composition in this comic book effectively conveys the mood, enhancing the story’s atmospheric qualities. The visual style captures the elegance of the geisha world while juxtaposing it with the underlying darkness of the unfolding mystery.

But this comic book has also some challenges it faces which I also need to mention in this review. The plot, while engaging, can feel somewhat slow-paced in this initial issue. The focus on establishing the setting and characters sometimes overshadows the development of the central mystery, which have left me wanting more from this comic book. However, this groundwork is crucial for setting up the series’ potential, hinting at deeper layers yet to be uncovered

When it comes to the side character, I gotta say that they were interesting but could have been developed much more than they were here. As the story progresses, their roles and backstories will hopefully be explored in greater depth, adding complexity to the narrative. This would enhance the dynamics within the group and enrich the overall plot.

The dialogues in this comic book are effective in conveying the characters’ personalities and advancing the story. However, there are moments where the exposition feels a bit heavy-handed, which can detract from the natural flow of the narrative. A more subtle integration of background information could enhance reader engagement.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Sam Corneile, a drifter, returns home to take a job at a local mental institution where he discovers a group of patients being exploited under an art therapy regimen. While there, he falls for Helen, a feisty but troubled female who dares him to confront his past.

This comic book gives us an intriguing start to what promises to be a captivating comic book series. In a way this comic book gives us a interesting start to it mixed with eerie atmosphere and psychological tension which makes this comic book series seem have to a lot of potential.

This comic book is set in a remote, dilapidated farmhouse and the story of this comic book quickly establishes a sense of unease. 

The writing in this comic book writing effectively captures the isolation and haunting quality of the setting.

I gotta admit here that the farmhouse in this comic book feels like a character, with its creaking floors and shadowy corners adding to the suspense.

I gotta admit that the atmospheric storytelling is one of the novel’s strengths, which makes this comic book more fun for me personally. Because this atmospheric storytelling gives this comic book feeling of both familiar and unsettling.

The main character in this comic book has a troubled past is gradually revealed in this comic book but also at the same time the main character in this comic book gives us a compelling anchor for the narrative. Throughout this comic book we delve into the main character’s psyche, exploring themes of memory, trauma, and redemption. Which in my opinion makes the main character more relatable and interesting to follow his journey in this comic book because in a way this character-driven approach adds depth to the story and allows us as readers to connect with the protagonist’s inner struggles.

The character development hints at deeper layers yet to be explored, and the setting provides ample opportunity for future tension and mystery. Which I personally liked a lot in this comic book.

The artwork in this comic book complements the narrative beautifully. The illustrations in this comic book are dark and moody, enhancing the overall tone of the story. The use of shadows and muted colors creates a visual representation of the protagonist’s emotional state, further immersing us as readers in the experience which the main character of this comic book has.

However the pacing in this comic book is very uneven at times, with certain sections feeling drawn out while others rush through potentially significant plot points. In my opinion this inconsistency disrupts the flow of the story, which had occasionally pulled me out of enjoying the plot of this comic book.

Even thou the atmosphere is expertly crafted, the plot itself feels somewhat predictable. Because the narrative leans on familiar horror and thriller tropes, which can diminish the impact of certain twists and turns. And as someone who has read a fair share of horror books and watched a lot of horror movies I gotta admit that the majority of horror elements this comic book uses are very generic to horror movies and books which makes this comic book lack a lot of originality.

The creators of this comic book have created a world that invites curiosity which have left me eager to uncover the secrets hidden within the farmhouse walls. Which means that I will be at least trying to read more comic books in this series.

One of the standout aspects of the novel is its exploration of psychological themes. The creators of this comic book delves into the complexities of human emotion, using the isolated setting to mirror the protagonist’s internal battles. This focus on the psychological adds a thought-provoking dimension to the story, elevating it beyond a simple horror narrative.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

In the deserts outside Las Vegas, Bloodshot has banded together with Project Rising Spirit’s most dangerous escapees. But when the Harbinger Wars erupt all around them, can he shape these super-powered children into a force for good – or are they too far gone? He’ll have to find out the hard way as the opposing forces of PRS and the Harbinger Foundation descend on all sides, bringing about a crucible the likes of which the Valiant Universe has never seen…

By acclaimed writer Duane Swierczysnki (Birds of Prey) and legendary artist Barry Kitson (Amazing Spider-Man), jump headlong into the uncompromising action of Valiant’s first crossover event right here with an all-new, standalone story arc that will redefine the weapon – no, the soldier – no, the hero known only as Bloodshot.

This comic book gives us a solid continuation of the Bloodshot saga which I’m pretty new to.

In a way this comic book is intertwining high-stakes action and sci-fi elements which I found to be interesting and intriguing. The premise of this book is for sure pretty unique and had a lot of potential which in the end this comic book didn’t use.

The writing style of this comic book maintains a steady pace and offers plenty of engaging moments.

However the narrative of this comic book seems like it doesn’t know where to take the story. Which made it seem to be like the creators of this comic book didn’t really care about the storyline in this comic book.

I gotta admit that this comic book offers us glimpses a wider and more extended world in the other comic books in this series. 

There are times where this comic book feels pretty uneven. And occasionally it is bogged down by exposition and a convoluted plot that may be challenging or at least it was challenging for a newcomer as myself to this series.

The artwork in this comic book is pretty impressive because it has clean lines and dynamic action sequences that bring the intense combat and futuristic setting to life in this comic book which I liked. 

The visuals in this comic book are a definite highlight of this entire comic book, even when the story itself tends to bring this whole comic book down a fair share.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

10-Page Preview! Who is Verity Bourneville? She’s a bit-part actress with a heart of gold and too many miles on the clock! Part “Eastenders”, part “Model Agency” (and part “X-Files”), “Custard Creams” is her quest for a decent role–and respite from her nightmares. For “Sleaze Castle” and “Petra Etcetera” fans!

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 whimsical and intriguing introduction to the full version of this comic book. I gotta say that this preview hints at a unique blend of humor, drama, and everyday life, though it leaves room for further development.

The story in this preview centers around Verity Bourneville, a former actress navigating the ups and downs of her unconventional life. Wiley crafts a character that is both charming and flawed, making Verity relatable and engaging. Her witty personality and sharp insights into the world around her provide much of the story’s appeal, drawing me personally into her quirky adventures.

The writing in this preview is characterized by a light-hearted tone and clever dialogue. The humor is often subtle, relying on Verity’s observations and interactions with the eclectic cast of supporting characters. These characters, while not deeply explored in the preview, add color and variety to the narrative, suggesting potential for future development.

The plot in this preview is more a series of vignettes than a cohesive storyline, reflecting the slice-of-life genre. This approach allows for a focus on character moments and everyday scenarios, though it can sometimes feel disjointed. While this structure suits the preview format, a more defined narrative arc could enhance engagement in a full-length installment.

The artwork in this preview complements the story’s whimsical nature. The illustrations are vibrant and expressive, capturing the essence of Verity’s world with a distinctive style. Wiley’s attention to detail brings the characters and settings to life, enhancing the overall reading experience. The visual humor, conveyed through facial expressions and background details, adds another layer to the storytelling.

However despite the good things that this preview has, it still have some challenges. Like the plot being very vague which have left me confused or me feeling that this preview lacks any clear sense of direction on where the plot is heading because it is so very vague. The pacing is also very uneven in this preview.

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

This is the third issue from the comic book series “The Five Of Us”. At this point Will and Jacob are discovering how to use their powers and try to avoid conflict. This is easier said then done. Jacob has a man called the Hunter tracking him down. Will has to face a gang called the P-HATS who are all over the neighborhood and school. Marcus now has to make a decision to put his ring to help Will with his problems.

This comic book offers us an earnest and in a way heartfelt look at the superhero genre which I have mixed feelings about for a few reasons. Which as always I will explain in this review. 

This comic book focuses mostly on personal growth of the characters in this comic book and their challenges of heroism which they go through in the plot of this comic book.

The writing style of this comic book carries a sincere tone to it. At the same time this comic book introduces a cast of characters with potential which wasn’t fully used. 

The narrative of this comic book occasionally feels a bit generic to other superhero comic books and it doesn’t quite break new ground because of how generic the narrative of this comic book is.

The pacing of this comic book is steady. Which allows this comic book to create moments for character reflection alongside action which we get in this comic book.

Some of the plot points we get in this comic book could have been developed more fully to add depth and emotional impact. Because from where I see some of the plot points this comic book makes, feel pretty undeveloped and unexplored. Which didn’t help me liking this comic book.

The characters in this comic book were pretty decent for the most part. They had some potential which the creators of this comic book didn’t use.

The story in this comic book sets up interesting themes about identity and responsibility, which had a good premise but I personally weren’t a big fan of it in this comic book.

The artwork in this comic book is solid and functional. Because it is supporting the story well but without particularly standing out.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Before learning about her history and heritage as a descendant of Mandrake the Magician, Mandy Paz was a normal pre-teen girl. An increasing amount of supernatural occurences suddenly has Mandy realizing there is more to her life than she has ever considered.

I need to admit here that this comic book is the best comic book I have read this year. And I have read a lot of comic books this year which is saying something here.

This comic book is in a way a respectful, modern-leaning revival primer that balances nostalgia with a new-hero handoff. Which I had a hard time staying interested in at times.

This comic book is in a way functional and inviting, but the setup-heavy approach and uneven tone makes it boring and uninteresting at times. 

This comic book gives us some good teases of magic and hinting at good antagonists with a lot of character conflicts which I guess are further explored in other parts of this comic book series. 

In my opinion this comic book leans too much on narration and info which in a way drops the memento of this comic book rather than letting the mystery breathe.

This comic book has also a very uneven tone to it. Since the scenes in this comic book swings between pulpy wonder and YA-flavored angst without always smoothing the transitions.

The ending and the low stakes climax of this comic book makes this comic book not quite land with me to actually give this comic book a good rating.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

24 page preview! The most infamous airline hijacker of all time, D.B. Cooper remains on the FBI’s most-wanted list almost 40 years after the crime. For the first time, the secret history will be revealed. During the height of the Cold War, a fringe group within the C.I.A. wages a crusade on the deadliest battlefield of the mind. Aided by powerful psychotropic compounds, Cooper assists in a campaign of psychic assassination against the Soviets but are his government’s motives the same as his own or is his true mission something else entirely? Collecting the hit series from visionary cartoonist Brian Churilla (The Anchor), this volume offers new insights into Cooper’s multi-faceted quest.

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 is a pretty punchy, surreal spin on America’s most infamous skyjacker. Because this preview fuses Cold War espionage with psychedelic mind-war in a way that’s both stylish and intriguingly off-kilter. Which got me very intrigued by the plot of this preview. 

This preview is like a bland between alternate history and occult spycraft which is reframing the D.B. Cooper myth through assassinations waged in psychic dreamscapes. I need to admit here that this preview is weird in all the right ways for me personally to be interested in this preview. 

This preview has also a pretty confident tone to it. The deadpan humor and hardboiled narration which this preview has keeps this review in high-concept grounded.

At the same time this preview suggests a world where bureaucrats casually weaponize nightmares and it feels disturbingly plausible.

The thick lines, chunky silhouettes, and expressive faces which the artwork of this preview has evoke a pulpy, retro vibe that suits the period setting.

The creatures and landscapes of this preview almost points towards something close to psychic realm.

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