Tag: 3 Star Reviews

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Award-winning Filipino comic, and now hit Netflix anime series! Foul play. Magic spells. Supernatural criminals. When the case takes a turn for the weird, the police call Alexandra Trese. The TRESE 2022 FCBD comic features a preview of the forthcoming TRESE Vol 4: Last Seen After Midnight TP, along with bonus material on the comic, including some of Alexandra’s journal entries chronicling her creature encounters and more. It also includes a sneak peek at THE ART OF TRESE ANIME, featuring art, sketches, photos, interviews and more on the making of the hit Netflix anime series, HC book coming out 2nd half of 2022 from ABLAZE

This comic book offers an intriguing introduction to the supernatural world of Trese. At the same time this comic book provides a glimpse into the dark, urban fantasy setting that fans of the series have come to love, while also serving as an accessible entry point for new readers.

This comic book is set in Manila, the story follows Alexandra Trese, a detective who specializes in crimes of supernatural origin. The writing in this comic book effectively blends Filipino mythology with modern crime noir, creating a rich tapestry of cultural and supernatural elements. The premise is compelling, offering a fresh take on the detective genre by infusing it with local folklore and mysticism.

The narrative in this comic book is compact, focusing on a single case that showcases Trese’s skills and the unique nature of her world. The creators of this comic book manages to convey a lot of information in a limited space, introducing key characters and setting up the atmosphere without overwhelming the reader. However, the brevity of the story limits character development, leaving some interactions feeling a bit superficial.

The artwork is a highlight in this comic book because it is capturing the gritty, shadowy atmosphere of Manila’s supernatural underworld. The black-and-white illustrations enhance the noir aesthetic, using contrasts and shading to create depth and intensity. The artwork in this comic book has dynamic panel layouts add to the sense of motion and urgency, particularly in action sequences, which are both clear and engaging.

The character design is another strength, with Alexandra Trese portrayed as both formidable and enigmatic. Her interactions with the supernatural beings that populate her world are visually striking, highlighting her role as a bridge between the human and mystical realms. The supporting characters, while intriguing, could benefit from more exploration to enhance their roles within the story.

While this comic book is successful in setting the tone and introducing the world of Trese, it does have some limitations. The plot, while engaging, feels somewhat rushed due to the constraints of the format. This can make the resolution feel abrupt, which has left me wishing for more depth and complexity in the storyline.

The dialogues in this comic book are efficient and often sharp, reflecting Trese’s no-nonsense attitude. The exchanges between characters are effective in conveying necessary information, but they occasionally lack the emotional depth that could elevate the narrative. More nuanced dialogue could enrich character interactions and provide greater insight into their relationships and motivations.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Meet Glory, raised off the grid in a convoy amid truckers—the last men and women fighting for true freedom on the American open road. Now, in order to pay for her beloved dying Father’s surgery, Glory has three days to pull off four dangerous cross-country heists with mob killers, crooked cops, and a psycho ex-husband all out to bring her in or die trying.The new ongoing series by New York Times bestselling author RICK REMENDER and legendary French superstar BENGAL brings you a high-speed chase across the American West that examines our dwindling freedoms and the price paid by those who fight for an untethered life, in this special double-sized first issue with 40 pages of story!

This comic book offers a thrilling yet uneven start to a high-octane adventure. At the same time this comic book introduces us as readers to a gritty world of fast cars, daring heists, and complex characters, though it sometimes struggles with pacing and depth.

The story in this comic book follows Glory, a determined young woman embarking on a series of heists to save her ailing father. Set against the backdrop of the American Southwest, the creators of this comic book creates a narrative filled with adrenaline-pumping action and moral dilemmas. The premise is engaging, with Glory’s mission providing a strong emotional core that drives the plot forward.

The writing itself in this comic book is sharp, capturing the urgency and stakes of Glory’s situation. The dialogue is snappy and captures the tension between characters effectively. However, this comic book occasionally feels rushed, with rapid transitions between scenes that has left me at times disoriented. This pacing challenge impacts the development of key characters, making it difficult to fully connect with their motivations and backstories.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, vividly bringing the world of “Death or Glory” to life. The illustrations we get in this comic book are dynamic and energetic, perfectly capturing the intensity of car chases and heists. The character designs we get in this comic book are distinctive and expressive, adding personality and depth to the cast. The visual storytelling is compelling, enhancing the narrative’s impact.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as freedom, family, and survival. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative, providing depth and context to Glory’s actions. Her struggle to navigate a corrupt system while staying true to her principles adds complexity to her character and the story.

Despite its strengths, this comic book could benefit from more focused character development. While Glory is a compelling protagonist, the supporting cast lacks depth, serving primarily to advance the plot rather than offering fully fleshed-out personalities. This limits the story’s emotional resonance and the potential for character-driven drama.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

When Jennifer Kajiwara was a rookie agent, well before she became Amazing Agent Luna’s no-nonsense handler known as “Control,” she excelled in her freshmen year at the Agency. Unfortunately, her first field mission did not go as planned. When an important political figure is assassinated, Jennifer and her team become fugitives in the rogue state of Bruckenstein. Determined to learn the truth about the murder, Jennifer discovers that she may have been betrayed by someone close to her-and even worse, there is a conspiracy that goes deeper than she ever imagined.

This comic book presents an engaging continuation of the series. At the same time this comic book offering a blend of espionage, drama, and character development that has kept me personally intrigued.

The story in this comic book picks up with Jennifer navigating the complexities of her dual life as a high school student and secret agent. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that balances action with emotional depth, exploring themes of identity and loyalty. Jennifer’s internal conflict is highlighted as she struggles to reconcile her undercover duties with her personal desires.

The writing itself in this comic book is sharp and engaging, with dialogue that captures the nuances of teenage life and the high-stakes world of espionage. While Jennifer remains a compelling protagonist, some supporting characters lack depth, serving primarily to advance the plot rather than being fully fleshed out. This can sometimes make the narrative feel a bit one-dimensional.

The artwork itself in this comic book is vibrant and expressive, effectively conveying the energy and tension of the story. The character designs are appealing, capturing the distinct personalities of the cast. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict action sequences with clarity and excitement enhances the overall reading experience, making the manga visually engaging.

The pacing of this comic book is generally well-handled, balancing fast-paced action with slower, character-driven moments. However, some plot points feel rushed, with conflicts resolved too quickly to allow for significant tension or development. This has left me at times wishing for more in-depth exploration of key storylines.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of Jennifer’s personal growth and the challenges of her unique situation. The creators of this comic book effectively weave themes of self-discovery and responsibility into the narrative, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story invites readers to empathize with Jennifer’s struggles and triumphs, making her journey relatable and engaging.

Despite its strengths, this comic book occasionally relies on familiar tropes, which might feel predictable to some readers. However, the execution and charm of the story offer an enjoyable experience that sets the stage for further development.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Midnigter’s on the hunt for the Perdition Pistol, a legendary weapon believed to fire bullets with body-snatching demons inside — but you shouldn’t listen to everything the old stories say.

This comic book offers a bold introduction to the character of Midnighter, delivering a mix of action and intrigue. At the same time this comic book gives us as readers a glimpse into the life of a complex antihero, setting the stage for what could be a compelling series.

Midnighter, known for his brutal efficiency and sharp wit, is a character who thrives in the gray areas of morality. The creators of this comic book captures this complexity well, presenting a protagonist who is both relatable and intimidating. The narrative dives right into the action, showcasing Midnighter’s combat prowess and strategic mind, which fans of the character will appreciate.

The artwork is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing a dynamic and kinetic energy to the pages. The illustrations are bold and detailed, perfectly capturing the intensity of Midnighter’s world. This comic book has a unique panel layouts and use of motion create a sense of fluidity, making the action sequences particularly engaging. The character designs are striking, highlighting Midnighter’s distinctive appearance and adding to his larger-than-life persona.

While this comic book succeeds in its visual and thematic elements, it does have some areas that could be improved. The plot, while action-packed, is somewhat thin, focusing primarily on showcasing Midnighter’s abilities rather than delving into a deeper narrative. For readers unfamiliar with the character, this might make it difficult to fully engage with the story. More context and backstory could provide a richer understanding of Midnighter’s motivations and the world he operates in.

The character development is another area where this comic book could benefit from more depth. While Midnighter’s personality is well-established, the supporting characters are not given much attention. Developing these characters further would enhance the narrative and provide opportunities for more complex interactions.

The dialogues in this comic book are sharp and often witty, reflecting Midnighter’s no-nonsense attitude. The writing in this comic book captures the essence of the character, though at times it leans heavily on quips and one-liners. Adding more layers to the dialogue could enrich the character dynamics and provide more insight into their relationships.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book delivers an exciting introduction to a character with significant potential. The combination of action, striking artwork, and a compelling protagonist makes it an intriguing read. With further development of the plot and supporting characters, future issues could offer a more immersive and nuanced experience.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Miami’s newest teenage superhero has a weakness for beautiful girls…literally! Hot on the heels of its world-wide FREE COMIC BOOK DAY debut, your new favorite superhero action comedy begins its EPIC ongoing series run! Witness the frightening origin of EPIC’s first fearsome foe, the half-man/half-spider monstrosity DADDY LONG LEGS! See the scintillating first appearance of SCAREWOLF! Watch our hero whiff at his first attempt to woo the pretty new girl at school!

This comic book offers a fun and energetic take on the superhero genre. At the same time this comic book introduces us as readers to a world where humor and adventure collide, setting the stage for a lighthearted yet action-packed series.

The story in this comic book follows Eric, a teenager who unexpectedly gains superpowers. Unlike many superhero tales, “Epic” leans heavily into comedy, making Eric’s journey both entertaining and relatable. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that captures the awkwardness of adolescence alongside the challenges of newfound abilities. The blend of humor and superhero tropes keeps the story engaging, though it sometimes relies on familiar clichés.

The characters development in this comic book is promising, particularly with Eric. His personality shines through as he navigates the ups and downs of being a teenage superhero. The supporting characters, while not as fleshed out, add to the comedic dynamic. However, more depth and backstory for these characters could enhance the overall narrative and provide richer interactions.

The artwork is a standout feature of this comic book. The illustrations are vibrant and energetic, perfectly matching the tone of the story. The artwork in this comic book has a dynamic style brings the action scenes to life, capturing the excitement and chaos of superhero battles. The character designs are bold and memorable, contributing to the comic’s overall appeal.

While this comic book succeeds in many areas, it does have its limitations. The plot, while entertaining, is somewhat predictable, following a typical superhero origin story arc. For readers familiar with the genre, the lack of surprising twists may reduce the overall impact. Additionally, the humor, while generally effective, occasionally verges on being too over-the-top, which might not appeal to everyone.

The pacing of this comic book is well-managed, which have kept me engaged from start to finish. The balance between action sequences and character moments is well-executed, ensuring that the story maintains momentum throughout. However, some scenes feel a bit rushed, leaving little room for deeper exploration of the plot or characters.

The dialogues in this comic book are witty and fast-paced, contributing to the comic’s lighthearted tone. The banter between characters is entertaining, though at times it could benefit from more depth and subtlety. Adding layers to the dialogue would enhance character interactions and provide more meaningful exchanges.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Detective Melvyn Stone, that’s who. After a mandatory sabbatical in South Africa, Detective Stone returns to duty but this time, he’s sharing his body with the ghost of a career criminal! Joined by the ghostly James Wyatt, and his new partner Detective Claire Sanchez, Mel begins to realize the strange journey he is now on. How are he and James linked? What happened to him while he was in South Africa? And what is the significance of the River Styx?

This comic book offers an intriguing blend of supernatural elements and detective noir. At the same time this comic book sets the stage for a unique series that combines mystery, horror, and the paranormal, though it occasionally struggles with pacing and character depth.

The story in this comic book centers around Jacob Stone, a detective with a supernatural edge, as he attempts to solve bizarre cases that blend the ordinary with the extraordinary. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that teases the potential for a rich, dark world where the supernatural lurks just beneath the surface. The premise is promising, which had drawn me personally in with the allure of mystery and the unknown.

The character development, however, is somewhat lacking in this comic book. Because Jacob Stone is introduced with hints of a complex backstory, but his character feels somewhat underexplored. While his interactions with other characters provide a glimpse into his personality, more depth and nuance would help establish a stronger connection with us as readers. Supporting characters, too, could benefit from more fleshing out to enhance the overall narrative.

The pacing of this comic book is uneven, with moments of tension and intrigue interspersed with slower, less engaging scenes. This can disrupt the flow of the story, making it challenging for me personally to maintain their investment in the plot. A more consistent pacing could enhance the suspense and allow for a deeper exploration of the intriguing world this comic book has given us. 

The artwork in this comic book is a highlight of this comic book because it is capturing the gritty and atmospheric essence of the narrative. The illustrations are bold and dynamic, effectively conveying the eerie and unsettling tone that the story demands. The use of heavy shadows and stark contrasts enhances the mood, creating a visually compelling backdrop for the unfolding mystery.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book succeeds in establishing a compelling premise that holds promise for future development. The blend of detective noir and supernatural horror is intriguing, and with more focused storytelling and character development, the series could evolve into a captivating and immersive experience.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

A COMIXOLOGY EXCLUSIVE! In Keenspot’s first made-for-mobile comic book series, the Commander-in-Chief isn’t the only one in the family with presidential powers. In this fantastic first issue, first daughter Tasha Tasker learns her position calls for more responsibility than she bargained for when she begins to display amazing abilities after discovering a secret room in the White House basement. His daughter’s unusual situation adds to the many worries of presidential dad Brad Tasker, who may know more about what’s happening to Tasha than he’s letting on.

This comic book presents a unique take on political intrigue mixed with superhero. At the same time this comic book introduces us as readers to a world where the lines between politics and heroism blur, setting the stage for an engaging narrative.

The story in this comic book centers around the President’s daughter, who unexpectedly finds herself in the midst of extraordinary circumstances. The creators of this comic book create a narrative that combines elements of action, drama, and a touch of humor. The premise is intriguing, offering a fresh perspective on the superhero genre by intertwining it with political themes.

The character development is a mixed bag in this comic book. While the protagonist is given a clear personality and relatable motivations, the supporting characters could benefit from further development. The interactions between characters are engaging, but they sometimes lack depth, which have left me wanting more insight into their backgrounds and relationships.

The artwork in this comic book effectively captures the tone of the story, with dynamic illustrations that bring the action sequences to life. The character designs are distinctive, helping to establish each individual’s role within the narrative. However, some panels feel a bit cluttered, which can occasionally detract from the clarity of the action.

The pacing of this comic book is generally well-managed, balancing moments of tension with lighter, character-driven scenes. The narrative moves briskly, keeping readers engaged throughout. However, some plot points feel rushed, with little time for exploration or depth. A more measured approach could allow for richer storytelling.

The dialogues in this comic book are functional, though it sometimes relies on clichés. The conversations are effective in advancing the plot but could benefit from more nuance and originality. Adding layers to the dialogue would enhance character interactions and make them more memorable.

Despite its shortcomings this comic book offers a promising start to the series. The concept of combining political intrigue with superhero elements is innovative, providing a fresh angle for storytelling. With further development of characters and refinement of the narrative structure, future comic books in this series could deliver a more compelling and immersive experience.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Jake Hyde doesn’t swim––not since his father drowned. Luckily, he lives in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, which is in the middle of the desert, yet he yearns for the ocean and is determined to leave his hometown for a college on the coast. But his best friend, Maria, wants nothing more than to make a home in the desert, and Jake’s mother encourages him to always play it safe.

This comic book is a heartfelt exploration of identity, friendship, and love. At the same time this comic book offers a fresh take on the origin story of Aqualad, blending superhero elements with a coming-of-age narrative that resonates with young adult readers.

The storytelling aspect of this comic book is both sincere and engaging, focusing on Jake Hyde, a high school student grappling with his sexuality and his mysterious connection to water. The creators of this comic book effectively captures the nuances of Jake’s internal struggles and his journey toward self-acceptance. The narrative is grounded in reality, making Jake’s experiences and emotions relatable to anyone who has faced similar challenges.

The character development is a strong point in this comic book. Because Jake is portrayed with depth and authenticity, navigating the complexities of his identity and relationships. The creators of this comic book do an excellent job of portraying Jake’s interactions with his best friend Maria and his crush Kenny, highlighting the dynamics of friendship and budding romance. These relationships add layers to the story, making it emotionally rich and engaging.

However, while the emotional core of the novel is compelling, the pacing can feel uneven at times. Certain plot points, particularly those related to Jake’s discovery of his powers and his connection to the ocean, are introduced but not fully developed. This has left me personally wanting more depth and exploration of the superhero elements, which are somewhat overshadowed by the coming-of-age themes.

The artwork in this comic book is a highlight of this comic book because it is bringing the story to life with expressive and atmospheric illustrations. The use of watercolors adds a soft, dreamlike quality to the visuals, perfectly capturing the emotional tone of the narrative. The character designs are detailed and emotive, allowing us as readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through facial expressions and body language enhances the storytelling, making each panel impactful.

While this comic book excels in its portrayal of personal growth and identity, it occasionally lacks the narrative tension and depth that might fully engage readers. The balance between Jake’s personal journey and the superhero elements could be more refined, ensuring that both aspects are explored more thoroughly.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Special 9-page preview! 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!

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 of mystery and intrigue. At the same time this preview sets the stage for a series that promises a blend of noir and supernatural elements, though it leaves some room for development.

This preview is set in 1930s Japan, the story follows a group of geisha who become entangled in a web of secrets and danger. The creators of this preview create a narrative that is both atmospheric and enticing, drawing readers into a historical setting rich with cultural detail. The premise is captivating, combining elements of suspense with a unique cultural backdrop that adds depth to the story.

The character development in this preview is somewhat limited, as the focus is primarily on establishing the setting and mood. The geisha are portrayed with hints of complexity, suggesting potential for deeper exploration in full version of this preview. However, more insight into their individual personalities and motivations would enhance the emotional impact of the narrative.

The artwork in this preview plays a crucial role in bringing the world of “Dark Mists” to life. The illustrations capture the elegance and grace of the geisha, while also conveying the underlying tension and mystery of the plot. The artwork effectively complements the writing in this preview, helping to establish the preview’s distinctive atmosphere. The use of shadow and light is particularly effective, adding a layer of visual intrigue to the story.

While this preview succeeds in setting up an intriguing premise, it does have some areas that could be improved. The pacing, for instance, is uneven at times. Certain scenes feel rushed, with abrupt transitions that can disrupt the flow of the narrative. A more measured approach to storytelling would allow for a richer exploration of both characters and plot.

The dialogues in this preview, while functional, occasionally lacks the depth and nuance that could elevate the interactions between characters. More layered conversations would not only provide greater insight into the characters’ minds but also enrich the overall narrative.

Despite these shortcomings this preview holds promise. The combination of historical setting, cultural elements, and a touch of the supernatural creates a unique foundation for the series. With further character development and refinement of the narrative structure, the full version of this preview could deliver a more compelling and immersive experience.

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